LAUREN FLAUM MONTICELLO TIMES

Saturday is when Riverfest truly comes alive.

From runners crossing the finish line before breakfast to shoppers browsing handmade artwork beneath the shade trees of Ellison Park and music carrying late into the evening, Saturday packs more events into a single day than any other during Monticello’ s annual summer celebration.

Whether you’ re looking to lace up your running shoes, discover a one-of-a-kind piece of art, sample local food, cheer on friendly competition or dance the night away, Saturday offers something for nearly everyone.

The day begins bright and early at West Bridge Park with Riverfest’ s annual road races. The family-friendly 1-mile race starts at 7:30 a. m., followed by the 5K at 8 a. m., welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Friends and family can cheer participants on as they make their way through downtown before crossing the finish line back at the park.

By midmorning, the action shifts to Ellison Park, where Riverfest’ s largest daytime events transform the Mississippi riverfront into a bustling marketplace of art, food and music.

Hosted by the Monticello Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Art in the Park returns from 8 a. m. to 3 p. m. with more than 120 vendors, including more than 35 artists making their Riverfest debut. The juried show features original, handmade and artist-designed work ranging from paintings, photography and pottery to jewelry, woodworking, textiles, metal art and unique home décor.

Unlike many craft fairs, Art in the Park accepts only original

work that is handmade or significantly transformed by the artist, giving visitors an opportunity to shop directly from the creators themselves.

Running alongside the art show is Taste of Monticello

from 10 a. m. to 3 p. m., where area restaurants, caterers and food vendors serve up some of their most popular menu items while live music fills the park.

Whether you’ re in the mood for a full meal or just a sweet

treat, Taste of Monticello offers plenty of options. New this year, Ellie-Ann’ s Old Fashion Mini Donuts will be serving mini donuts topped with ice cream, chocolate and caramel sauce, and sprinkles.

Just a short walk away, beanbags will once again be flying during the annual Riverfest Beanbag Tournament, beginning at 10 a. m. The tournament welcomes players of all experience levels with both competitive and social divisions, giving participants the chance to compete for cash prizes and local bragging rights.

Saturday also offers a chance to get an up-close look at the people and equipment that help keep the community safe.

The Monticello Fire Department’ s annual Open House runs from 1 to 3 p. m. at the fire station, where families can tour the building, meet firefighters, explore emergency vehicles and equipment, and learn more about fire safety and emergency response. Public safety partners, vendors and family-friendly activities round out the afternoon.

As daylight begins to fade, Riverfest shifts into party mode.

The annual Street Dance returns to the west parking lot of the Monticello Community Center, with gates opening at 5 p. m. Opening act Dysfunktional takes the stage at 5:30 p. m., followed by headliner The Fabulous Armadillos at 8 p. m. Known for energetic performances and an eclectic playlist spanning country, Motown, heavy metal and classic rock, the Minnesota favorites promise to keep the crowd singing and dancing well into the night.

Food trucks, concessions and beverages will be available throughout the evening, making it easy to grab dinner without missing the music.

From the first runners leaving the starting line to the final encore at the Street Dance, Saturday showcases Riverfest at its busiest— and for many longtime festivalgoers, its very best.