Mercer County is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors to one of its most beloved traditions: RiverFest. This year’s event, which combines the excitement of Trenton River Days with the family-friendly festivities of RiverFest, promises to deliver a bigger, more dynamic celebration along the banks of the Delaware River.
For the Trenton community, the festival is not just an event – it is a way to connect the community to one of the region’s most vital natural resources.
“River Fest is a collaboration between Mercer County, The Watershed Institute, Trenton Thunder, and the City of Trenton,” County Executive Dan Benson explained. “We work with over 30 exhibitors from around the region to hold a big celebration for the Delaware River. Visitors can experience food, music, and a wide range of family activities – everything from a pontoon boat tour on the river, learning to fish, even a pork roll eating contest!”
Benson noted that organizing RiverFest is a true community partnership. “Putting this event together is an opportunity to work with an incredible team of people,” he said, giving credit to Trenton Thunder, the Watershed Institute, the City of Trenton, and the Mercer County Park Commission staff. He offered special thanks to Executive Director Joe Pizza and Tulpehaking Nature Center Director Kelly Rypkema for their dedication in ensuring the event’s success.
The collaborative spirit, he added, is what makes the festival such a rich experience. “We’re excited about the sheer variety of activities that visitors can enjoy. This year we’ve combined Trenton River Days and River Fest into one unified event, which means there’s even more to see and do.”
Among the attractions this year is the River Fest Youth Art Contest, which invites young artists to showcase their creativity. Winners will receive a $100 gift card and the unique opportunity to throw the opening pitch at a Trenton Thunder game.
While the festival is filled with food and fun, Benson emphasized that RiverFest has a deeper mission. “We hope that attendees will connect with Trenton’s waterfront and come away with an appreciation for the rich history of the Delaware River that sustains our city and our whole region,” he said. “We also see this as an opportunity to foster community by bringing people together and reminding them how much our Capital City has to offer.”
That history, he pointed out, is woven into the identity of Trenton itself. “The Delaware River is why the City of Trenton is here. Historically, this river provided the food and resources for people and industry to thrive in this location. Today it provides recreational and wellness opportunities, natural beauty, and it’s the source of drinking water for most of the residents in our region. We continue to rely on the Delaware River, and it remains an important resource for us to protect.”
Benson said the best way for the community to support RiverFest is by simply showing up and taking part in the festivities. “The best way is to attend, and bring your friends and family with you! We love connecting our region with the Delaware River and with Thunder Stadium.”
Whether it’s families looking to enjoy a day outdoors, history buffs eager to learn about the Delaware’s past, or kids hoping to win the art contest and throw the first pitch, RiverFest offers something for everyone.
For RiverFest’s organizers, that spirit of inclusivity is at the heart of the celebration. “RiverFest is really about coming together as a community, appreciating our natural resources, and enjoying all that makes Mercer County special.”
More information, including a full schedule of activities and details on the Youth Art Contest, is available on the RiverFest website: mlbdraftleague.com/trenton/tickets/riverfest.