WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — Live music created the soundtrack for Wyoming Valley's 30th annual Riverfest.
Despite the heat, people made their way to enjoy the fest.
"What's amazing about Nesbit Park here is we've got these decade-old sycamore trees that provide a lot of shade, and there's a really nice breeze coming off the river, so really, honestly, it's a lovely day," said Rachael Stark, Riverfront Parks Committee.
Some people chose ice cream to beat the heat. The festival also had plenty of food trucks and activities for the kids, like face painting, bicycle helmet giveaways, and the 5k color run.
"I did the color run. It was torture; it was hot, but it was fun. It was worth it because it's nice to run, and they're giving money to help the murals and the art for Wilkes-Barre, so yeah, that's a big part of it," said Somaya Genovesi, Larksville.
Organizers say the goal of Riverfest is to celebrate all that the river and the natural environment around it provide for the community. Representatives from different environmentalist organizations were on hand; some offered free pollinator plants.
"Pollinator species are losing some habitat, and it's really important for folks to understand the importance of planting native species so that it does support those birds and bees and butterflies," said Meg Welker, PPL Lead Environmental Professional.
A few festivalgoers already had plans to cool down after the fest.
"My brother is a reenactor, and he has a booth right behind you, so we came to see him and just to walk around. I know it's a very hot day, so after this, I'm going into the Kingston Pool to cool down," said Patti Heller, Kingston.
This is the 30th annual of Riverfest, which wraps up on Sunday.