While there are plenty of festivals happening near the French Broad River, RiverLink’s annual RiverFest actually starts off in the river. The Anything that Floats wacky raft race sets sail at 11 a.m. (watch it from the bank or gather a team to participate), followed by an afternoon of live music, food trucks, Sierra Nevada beer and more. Entertainment kicks off at 1:15 p.m. with a kids parade and jugglers, and includes performances by Claire Dima Bellydancers, CaroMia, Asheville Aerial Arts, Ashley Heath and The Sun Cans. The festival takes place on Saturday, Aug. 8. Free admission; profits from food and beverage sales benefit river preservation programs. riverlink.com. Photo courtesy of RiverLink
Smart bets: RiverFest

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