More than 2,000 brave the heat to remember fallen soldiers, enjoy Riverfest
GREEN COVE SPRINGS – More than 2,000 people braved sweltering heat on Memorial Day to honor the nation’s soldiers during the 34th Riverfest at Spring Park.
With temperatures reaching 101 …
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More than 2,000 brave the heat to remember fallen soldiers, enjoy Riverfest
GREEN COVE SPRINGS – More than 2,000 people braved sweltering heat on Memorial Day to honor the nation’s soldiers during the 34th Riverfest at Spring Park.
With temperatures reaching 101 degrees by mid-afternoon, city officials were diligent in making sure nobody overheated.
“It was very successful despite the hot weather,” said Green Cove Springs communications coordinator Tiffanie Reynolds. “The heat was a big concern. We set up an A/C tent with chairs if anyone got too hot. We also opened the pool free of charge. We used social media to remind people to dress for the heat and stay hydrated. We made an extra effort to make sure everyone stayed cool.”
The festivities started at 10 a.m. Monday with 125 veterans being recognized and a flyover by the Dreamland Squadron that’s comprised of retired pilots.
The pool was so busy, it reached capacity at 3 p.m.
Thirteen acts performed throughout the day at the gazebo, while nearly 100 vendors sold everything from funnel cakes to T-shirts, and, of course, bottled water.
When the oppressive heat finally broke at 6 p.m. the streets filled again with residents and visitors. By the time the festival ended with the traditional fireworks display, the entire bank of the St. Johns River from the city pier to the park was crowded with people.
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