Thousands upon thousands of people enjoyed sunny weather, great food and entertainment at this past weekend’s IKEA Renton River Days festival.
Upward of 40,000 people were expected at Liberty Park Friday through Sunday and at the parade on Saturday in downtown Renton.
The 26th annual event offered visitors 91 crafts booths, community information, interactive games, inflatables and activities for the kids, live entertainment, such as musical acts and circus performers, and art and quilt shows.
“As far as I can tell, festival weekend was a complete success,” said Sonja Mejlaender, festival director. “We were very fortunate to have perfect weather for River Days; given the summer we’ve had so far, Mother Nature was definitely our friend this past weekend.”
River Days drew more Art Market vendors, parade entrants and spectators this year in part because it didn’t compete with other area festivals, she said.
“By most initial measures, this was one of our strongest festivals so far,” said Mejlaender.
A new attraction this year was the Ducklings & Dragons Scavenger Hunt at Liberty Park. The game became so popular that the organizing committee had to keep producing game materials.
Sunday was the last day of the three-day festival and featured the annual Rubber Ducky Derby. Rubber ducks were launched from the Houser Street Bridge and the first five to be collected at the Bronson Way Bridge won prizes.
Individuals or groups are encouraged to contact Renton River Days at 425.430.6528 or email Sonja Mejlaender at smejlaender@rentonwa.gov to propose a new festival event. A survey to evaluate the experience at this year’s festival is available here.
2011 Rubber Ducky Derby Winners
1st prize – John Lowney won $1,000, donated by Renton Rotarians
2nd prize – Janet Owen won $750, donated by Renton Coil Spring Co.
3rd prize – Karin Bunker won a $500 IKEA gift card
4th prize – Russ Price won a $500 King & Bunny’s Appliances gift certificate
5th prize – Krystal Townsand won a $400 Renton Western Wear gift certificate
Here is a list of other festival winners.
