RiverArts:
Something for Everyone
The temperature has finally begun to rise and green has returned to the Red River Valley. Soon local schools will release students until next fall. Summer has arrived! There are many programs and events scheduled throughout the valley over the next few months, most of which are geared toward families and children. One such program is Moorhead’s RiverArts, sponsored by the Moorhead Parks and Rec Department.
RiverArts begins on June 11 and includes events through August. “We try to offer something for everyone,” said Tara Ekren, Special Events Coordinator for Moorhead Parks and Rec. “We really want the program to be very family friendly.” Indeed, each nightly schedule includes performances and activities that appeal to a wide variety of audiences.
June 11 features a performance by Slamabama. For those of you not familiar with the group, Slamabama has been called a perfect blend of Sugarland and Van Halen. Comprised of four members, Slambama has built a reputation of unequaled stamina on-stage as they seamlessly go from one song to the next without wasting time. Their website asks you to “be prepared to join in the fun when you sing along to all of your favorites and be blown away by how much you love the original music from their 2 successful album releases.” Slambama’s combination of rock and country will surely leave an impression on RiverArts participants.
Barrel train rides will also be a part of the June 11 event. In addition, horse drawn carriage rides, vendors, and many hands-on activities will be present at each event throughout the summer. “We want adults to be able to come and sit on the lawn to enjoy the concerts while their children are busy enjoying the other activities,” Ekren said.
June 25 features the ever-popular Penny and Pals. Penny Andrist and Gail Benson have been in the kid-biz for years, first as teachers in public schools and now as professional speakers and entertainers. Their unique background in education and entertainment enables them to genuinely reach children and adults in both meaningful and playful ways. Together, they have created songs, stories and characters that people readily relate and respond to with the truest kid-like enthusiasm. Penny and Pals has appeared all over the Red River Valley for several years and will surely be a welcome sight at RiverArts.
Also included in the June 25th show will be a Tae Kwon Do demonstration as well as a fishing clinic sponsored by River Keepers, a non-profit organization established in 1990 to protect and preserve the integrity and natural environment of the Red River of the North in the Fargo, ND – Moorhead, MN area.
The feature performance on July 9th is a concert by local band October Road. The group recently released a new album entitled “Yesterday’s News,” and has added a fifth member to their group. The addition marks the first time since 2006 that the group has been a five-piece band. RiverArts participants can expect a new and exciting sound when October Road hits the stage. The ever-popular inflatable games by Games Galore will also be part of the July 9th celebration.
The July 23 event features music by Work Release, a popular alternative band. Work Release has been playing North Dakota and Minnesota since 2003 and promises “a variety of classic rock, pop, country, and alternative music to get you dancin’.” A photo booth will also make an appearance on July 23rd, giving participants a chance to bring home physical memories of a great night.
The final RiverArts event will take place on August 23 with a concert by Skyline. Fargo’s own Skyline was formed in 2010 by friends Adam Roark, Tom Lunde, and Aaron Pond. Although Skyline is primarily a rock band, they do play some country and party hits to get everyone involved. The August 23rd event will also offer pony rides.
Last year, RiverArts averaged about five hundred people per night. Moorhead Parks and Rec would love to see that number grow in 2013. Events have been meticulously planned and scheduled to include something for all age groups. The best part about RiverArts is that it is free. “Families don’t have to travel and it won’t break the bank for an evening of entertainment,” Ekren said. “The park is a beautiful setting for the event and there is truly something for the whole family to do.”
All events take place at the Davy Memorial Park at 210 8th St. N. in Moorhead. Located adjacent to the Red River, the park is a beautiful spot to take in the events and enjoy all that Midwest summers have to offer.
More information on RiverArts and other programs offered by Moorhead Parks and Recreation can be found at www.ci.moorhead.mn.us/parks.