Press release submitted by Mary Turner
Tunkhannock’s beloved River Day celebration returns to Riverside Park on Saturday, July 18, marking its 21st anniversary with a full day of music, environmental education, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly fun. Sponsored by the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, PA DCNR, Dietrich Theater, Tunkhannock Riverside Park Commission, and the Wyoming County Marcellus Legacy Fund. This free event invites the community to come together and celebrate the beauty and vitality of the Susquehanna River.
The festivities begin early with a guided kayak trip from Mehoopany to Tunkhannock. Participants will meet promptly at 9:30 a.m. at Riverside Park, where a shuttle will transport paddlers to the launch site. The scenic 11-mile journey includes a stop at Vosburg Neck State Park and offers a unique opportunity to experience the river’s natural splendor up close. Pre-registration is required by July 17. Call Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals at 570-388-6107 to sign up.
Back at Riverside Park, the day officially kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with a peaceful session of Kundalini yoga by the river, an energizing way to start the celebration.
From 1:00 to 7:00 p.m., the park will come alive with music, educational presentations, hands-on activities, and delicious food. All entertainment will take place under one large tent, allowing guests to enjoy every performance and presentation without missing a beat.
The musical lineup begins with Doug Smith’s Dixieland All-Stars, whose lively jazz will set the tone for the afternoon. Between musical sets, a variety of engaging presentations will take the stage. At 2:00 p.m. Cain Chamberlin of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region will share upcoming North Branch Water Trail events as well as the pursuit of a National Heritage designation. His talk will be followed by a fun and informative tick bingo, and tick mannequin to demonstrate the best ways to locate and safely remove ticks, led by Amanda Moyer, R.N. from the Department of Health. At 3:00 p.m., Bret Alexander, best known for his work with The Badlees, will take the stage for a high-energy rock performance.
Later in the afternoon at 4:00 p.m., hiking expert Gwen Buchanan will share her knowledge on hiking the great outdoors. At 4:30 p.m. the Dietrich Theater’s Jam Along Band Camp will showcase the talents of its young musicians, sharing the songs they’ve learned and practiced throughout the week during camp. Jill Robinson from the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau will follow up the Jam Along Band camp with some Local Hidden Gems, presenting interesting facts about the area and must-see attractions. Rounding out the presentations for the day will be Rebecca Lesko with River Wildlife, Rebecca will talk all about the flora and fauna that is dependent on the Susquehanna River.
The day will close with a rousing performance by Dave Brown & The Dishonest Fiddlers from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m., whose folk-Americana sound will provide the perfect finale to a day of celebration.
Throughout the day, families can enjoy a variety of free activities, including rock painting, face painting, and mural painting. The Frances Dorrance Chapter of the Pennsylvania Archaeological Society will be on hand to guide guests in screening for artifacts, while a wide range of environmental organizations will offer interactive displays and information. Exhibitors include the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners of Wyoming County, Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rental, the Dietrich Theater, Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Vosburg Neck State Park, PA Department of Health, PA DCNR Bureau of Forestry, Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, Tunkhannock Area Recreation Association (TARA) and the Tunkhannock Public Library.
No summer celebration would be complete without great food, and River Day delivers with a delicious lineup of vendors. Returning favorites like Sammy’s Caribbean Food & Lemonade Stand, Wicked Pissah Lobster Company and Momma Bear Boice will be joined by exciting newcomer the Ice Cream Truck 1961, offering something to satisfy every craving.
With its blend of live music, outdoor adventure, environmental education, and community spirit, River Day 2026 promises to be a highlight of the summer season. Whether you’re paddling the river, dancing under the tent, or simply soaking in the scenery, there’s something for everyone at this cherished Tunkhannock tradition.