An estimated 500 partook of the offerings that included a magic show and beer garden during the 16th annual Smith River Fest, held Aug. 24 at Monogram Foods Smith River Sports Complex.
“We had so many activities all day long. We started off with yoga by the river class,” Roger Adams, director of the county’s Parks and Recreation Department, said.
The event featured animals from Infinity Acres on-site, and the Helgramite Hustle 5k Mud Run was a success, with some impressive times.
The top three male contestants came in at just under 30 seconds apart, Adams said. James Smith camein at 00:22:06.00, Cory Lucas took second place, and Jackson Gunter came in third.
The female division also had impressive numbers. Ali Woolstenhulme came in first at 00:26:52.15, Morgan Axtell came in at 00:26:52.39, and came in third at 00:30:35.73.
“The demo pool was always one of the highlights of the event,” he said, adding the annual Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridges’ Duck Race was held at the demo pool. “They let some of the kids come in and pull out the winning ducks.”
Proceeds from the run are earmarked for the Boys & Girls Club of The Blue Ridge. The top three ducks also received cash prizes starting at $3,000.
Fest attendees also could check out the newest canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. River tubing was also available, with river shuttles available to move visitors up and downstream, Adams said, adding vendor spaces typically sell out each year, with some activities rotated every couple of years.
“There’s always something different each new year. We try to keep it fresh by having at least one new activity,” Adams said, adding this year’s fest “was just an awesome day.” His favorite part was “seeing all the people come out, a lot of new folks, and get exposed to the outdoor recreation in our area. We are just blessed to have such beautiful scenery.”
There are many benefits to being outdoors, including better mental health, Adams said, and the festival included “something for everyone.”
The fest will return next year, Adams said. Until then, he reminds residents to attend other events, including the Henry County Fair, which will be held September 25-28.
