***CANCELLED***
In an abundance of caution and in light of the impending weather threat posed by Hurricane Helene, the Service League of Cherokee County has made the difficult decision to cancel the 40th annual Riverfest, scheduled for September 28th and 29th. “The safety and well-being of our community, vendors, concessionaires, entertainers, and attendees are our top priorities, and we believe this decision is in the best interest of all involved,” says Melissa Wehunt, President of the Service League.
We are working diligently to notify all parties affected by this cancellation. We encourage everyone to follow the page for updates and additional information.
Riverfest Arts & Crafts festival is the League’s flagship fundraising event where all funds raised support Cherokee County children in need. While we are saddened by this cancellation, we remain committed to finding alternative ways to continue supporting our mission of helping the children and families in need within our community.
Updates regarding future fundraising plans for Riverfest will be shared on our official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RiverfestGA/. We encourage everyone to follow the page for updates and additional information.
We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our community as we prioritize safety during this time of uncertainty. Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to seeing you at future events.
An Arts and Crafts Festival with Something for Everyone
Featured against the picturesque banks of the Etowah River Park in Canton, the Riverfest Arts & Crafts festival is the League’s flagship fundraising event where all funds raised support Cherokee County children in need. The two-day festival draws over 25,000 patrons, over 150 arts crafts exhibitors, 10-20 concessionaires, and a host of local entertainers.
Begin your Riverfest experience by talking with our amazing sponsors who support our mission through their generous donations. Continue through the park to shop from more than 150 artists and crafters from all around Georgia and other southeastern states. Stop by the concessions area to try a wide variety of festival fare and delicious food and treats from local food trucks.
Riverfest is a great time for the entire family. A Children’s area features games, bouncy houses, a petting zoo, and miniature train rides. Sports fans can relax in our tailgating area with live broadcasts of football games. There’s something for everyone!
Started in 1984, Riverfest has grown into a fun community event for both adults and children and is always held on the last full weekend in September. Mark your calendar!
Come see why people travel from all over the southeast every year to attend Riverfest!
Arts & Crafts Vendors
Arts and Crafts vendors and exhibitors are the heart of Riverfest. We are seeking vendors offering handmade, one of a kind, products including art, jewelry, woodcrafts, children’s items, soaps, candles, unique lighting and décor, and gourmet food products. Application fees vary depending on booth size and electrical needs. All fees are detailed on the application.
Riverfest is a juried show. The jury, which consists of league members and longtime arts and crafts vendors, will convene a few months prior to the show. Vendors will be notified of their acceptance shortly after the jury concludes.
Applications are now closed for Riverfest 2024. Email rfartsandcrafts@serviceleague.net if you have any questions.
Concessionaires
The amazing treats for your family offered by our food trucks, vendors and tents are some of the highlights of Riverfest! After a full day of shopping and children playing, hungry tummies love the variety offered by the food vendors at Riverfest. All food vendors, including food trucks, are welcome to apply.
Applications for Riverfest 2024 concessions are now closed. Email rfconcessions@serviceleague.net if you have any questions.
Entertainment
One of the most special parts of Riverfest is the wonderful talent on display at the Entertainment Stage. The weekend will be filled with local musicians, dance teams, gymnasts, choirs, and other performances. While the League is very excited to support local talent, we are unable to pay performers. If you would like to be considered as part of the entertainment for Riverfest, please click the link below.
Email rfentertainment@serviceleague.net if you have any questions about becoming a performer.
Scarecrows
If you have attended Riverfest in the past, you know Scarecrows are a big part of the festive décor. Businesses and civic groups in our community contribute scarecrows designed and decorated by their group or organization. Following Riverfest, the business or civic group is provided with an option to move its scarecrow to downtown Canton where they will be displayed throughout the month of October.
Please email rfscarecrows@serviceleague.net if you have any questions.
Sponsors
Sponsors are essential to a successful Riverfest show. All sponsorship dollars remain in Cherokee County! We offer various levels of sponsorship for Riverfest ranging from $250 to $10,000. Sponsors committing $2,500 and up can greet patrons as they enter the festival and hand out promotional materials. With over 25,000 people attending over the two day period and extensive pre-festival marketing featuring sponsors logos, sponsoring Riverfest is a great way for companies to gain exposure in Cherokee County all while supporting a worthy cause.