'Bigger and better': Conway Riverfest returns for 44th year

CONWAY S.C. (WBTW) — One of Conway’s most treasured annual events returns this weekend.

The 44th annual Riverfest will take place from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. Saturday along Elm Street to the marina area. All of 2nd Avenue down to that area will also be blocked off to accommodate hundreds of vendors and thousands of visitors.

“We are going to have about 160 vendors this year, which is more than we have done in the past,” Special Events Coordinator Morgan McDonnell said.

There will also be lots of live music and other activities, including food, a beer garden, a business expo, an artisan market and a golf cart parade.

“This year, we have really exciting entertainment,” McDonnell said. “We went bigger with that as well. We are going to have Conway native and ‘American Idol’ contestant Mariah Faith.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be Riverfest without the fireworks to cap things off.

“The evening is going to wrap up with a really exciting fireworks display,” McDonnell said. “We went bigger and better with that than in years past in hopes of leaving a lasting impression on our attendees.”

McDonnell said they are hoping to welcome about 20,000 people. She said her favorite part is checking out all the vendors and local businesses.

“I think it really gives you a deeper look,” she said. “Sometimes, it’s easy to miss all the businesses that are around here. Conway is growing so much. So it really gives you an opportunity to take a second, pause at their table, hear what they have going on and what type of stuff they have to offer.”

One thing to remember: If you plan to attend Riverfest, get there early to find parking. Parking is free in downtown Conway.

Members of the News 13 team will be at Riverfest on Saturday.