Huron River Fest returns July 13-15

HURON — The Huron River Festival flows into the Huron Boat Basin later this month.The festival takes place July 13-15 at the boat basin, at 330 N. Main St.For 27 years, River Fest has been one of the area's most popular festivals with thousands of guests attending each year."We have a lot of great festivals in a relatively small geographical area," said William Biddlecombe, the festival's committee chairperson. "What I think sets us apart from the rest is our location along the river and our amazing firework display. We really have a whole lot for everyone of all ages."The festivities include live entertainment, rides, a parade and more. This year, the committee has made several improvements to some of its most popular events.The Road Show will include a live performance by the band Ruby and the Illusions. The royalty pageants have also seen an upgrade with an increase in the scholarship for the queen and the addition of scholarships for the runners-up.The pageant could prove to be the best yet since the committee added Jackie Mayer, Miss America 1963, who had a key role in organizing the show."Jackie Mayer has assumed the role as coordinator of our royalty pageants, providing us with years of experience and expertise," Biddlecombe said.The festival's famous firework display will continue. Biddlecombe said the fireworks can be seen across the city, but he suggests people come to the festival to see them."In my opinion, just being in the heart of the festival grounds surrounded by family, friends and neighbors make (the fireworks) just that much better," Biddlecombe said.The festivals ability to bring the community together and reunite past and present residents are some of the event's biggest draws, Biddlecombe said."What I enjoy the most is knowing that our festival brings so many people together. We've become the unofficial Huron city reunion," he said. "The fact that I can help continue the small town tradition, is all the reward I need for years worth of volunteer work."The Huron River Fest is organized by a small, but dedicated group of local residents who volunteer their time throughout the year to the festival's planning."I would just like to thank everyone involved that helps make the Huron River Fest one of the best festivals every year," Biddlecombe said.For the festival schedule, visit huronriverfest.com.Reach reporter Michael Harrington at michaelharrington@sanduskyregister.com, follow the Register at Facebook.com/SanduskyRegisterThe Huron River Festival by the boat basin