Weather Dampens early Festival Events, Organizers Expect Huge Weekend Crowds

Early River Raisin Festival activities were scrapped due to the weather, but after looking at weather projections, organizers are forecasting good times and family fun for this weekend.

It was hoped that the carnival would be running by Wednesday, but the installation was slowed by intense heat Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday's early evening rain showers prevented the carnival from operating and caused festival organizers to cancel the free movie night planned for Thursday evening.

But organizers are thrilled, because the rain chased away the stifling heat that's kept many area residents indoors by their trusty air conditioners. This weekend's weather calls for sun and temperatures in the 80s.

"We're going to have a great weekend," said Joyce Fetzer, president of the River Raisin Festival's organizing committee. "The weather is going to be gorgeous. People are looking for an excuse to get out of the house and have fun and that's what we're all about."

The festival's major events begin Friday, starting with the River Raisin Festival Scholarship Pageant on the Pavilion Stage in Bachmayer Park at 6 p.m. Fireworks are set for nightfall Friday.

Saturday kicks off with the annual River Raisin Parade through town at 10:30 a.m. Events continue all day, with entertainment on three stages. A laser show takes place at night fall near the Gail Giles Memorial Swimming Pool at nightfall.

Events continue on all three stages Sunday, which also features a car show and the Blissfield Idol contest.