Riverton’s 4th of July celebration inc free concert, 5K, parade, games

The Riverton 4th of July Committee plans a jam-packed day of patriotism to celebrate the country’s independence in old-school style. Some events happen in advance, but most are on Tuesday, July 4. Most are free. This is the 126th year of the Riverton 4th of July festivities.

Riverton 4th of July's Showcase Sponsors are Root24 Inc. and Aromaz Home Carpet & Flooring. Off-street parking is available throughout town; event-goers should be prepared to walk several blocks. Details, including start times and registration rules, are at www.Riverton4thOfJuly.com.

Sunday, July 2:

Free Concert in the Park

This free Concert in the Park, a run-up to patriotic festivities in Riverton, features two bands. JEM & The Vibe have built a reputation as party players with a knack for packing the dance floor. The band's repertoire features the biggest hits from the 1950s to today - a playlist with wide appeal. Seasoned musician Craig Bickhardt is an old-school rocker who weaves in folk, blues, country and ragtime influences. Food for purchase at 5 p.m. in Riverton’s Memorial Park (Cedar Street between Broad and Eighth streets). Bring lawn chairs and bug spray.

Sunday, July 3:

Free Bike-Decorating Workshop

Calling all children! The Riverton 4th of July Committee will host a bike-decorating workshop the day before the parade to help children get ready to ride in patriotic style. Crepe paper, streamers and tape will be provided from 1 to 2 p.m. at Riverton’s Memorial Park (Cedar Street between Broad and Eighth streets). This event is free and advance registration is not required.

Tuesday, July 4:

• A 5K race along the Delaware River and shady streets starts the holiday. At 8 a.m., a starter’s gun will release hundreds of runners in staggered starts from Sacred Heart Family Center (Fourth Street and Linden Ave.) for the Bill Oliver 5K Race around town, concluding at Memorial Park (Cedar Street between Broad and Eighth streets). The 1 Mile Run for Fun, which is geared toward children and typically attracts entire families, starts at 9:30 a.m. at Second and Cinnaminson streets and turns onto the heavily decorated Main Street parade route toward the park. Registration is $30 for the 5K Race and $10 for the 1 Mile Run for Fun, and can be completed online or the morning of the events.
• The 126th Riverton’s Children’s Parade rolls from the riverbank down Main Street with Mummers, marching bands, and floats representing local organizations. Hometown touches include kids riding their decorated bikes and locals who own fanciful or historical vehicles. Participant line-up happens an hour before the parade starts at 10 a.m. at the Delaware River and progresses one mile through this picturesque Victorian town that will be crowded with celebrants.
• A Welcome Ceremony and Games at Riverton’s Memorial Park (Cedar Street between Broad and Eighth streets) starts right after the parade to officially salute the country and its people with an invocation and the singing of The Star-Spangled Banner. Old-fashioned games and activities include attempts to climb a greased pole. Park events run from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. At 3:30 p.m. in the same location, residents will dress pets in his or her best for the annual Pet Pageant.
• The Great Joe Zaneski Downhill Race is a highlight of Riverton 4th of July festivities, starting at 2:30 p.m. at the top of the steepest hill in town. Gravity is the only power permitted for these homemade vehicles that have been crafted in garages across town. Ages 5 through 18-plus will take to the street in four heats. Safety rules and registration information are at www.Riverton4thOfJuly.com. The fun starts where steep Elm Terrace meets Park Avenue. Cash prizes for kids; bragging rights for adults
• A wild and crazy Raft Race wraps up Riverton’s 4th of July fun in partnership with Riverton Yacht Club (end of Main Street at Bank Avenue). The riverbank is crowded with onlookers who will watch brave contestants steer planks of polystyrene, plywood-topped inner tubes and PVC half-pipes with garden rakes, kitchen brooms, and Lego-like plastic paddles – because anything truly from the nautical realm is not allowed in this zany race. The hilarity of getting seaworthy crafts into position begins about a half hour before racing starts at 5:30 p.m.