LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT)\u00a0\u2014 La Crosse Riverfest is moving forward as scheduled with its four-day festival, welcoming hundreds of young people and families to celebrate together. The opening ceremony begins at 5 p.m., with the festival already demonstrating its commitment to youth engagement through early access events.<\/p>\n
The Boys and Girls Club brought 500 children from across La Crosse County to the festival grounds for an early lunch and preview of the festivities. The group’s presence underscores one of Riverfest’s core values: creating a family-oriented celebration that welcomes people of all ages.<\/p>\n
This year’s festival allows anyone 18 and under to enter free.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Beyond the celebration itself, this year’s Riverfest carries special meaning. The festival honors Cal, a member of the Riverfest family who passed away last fall before he could experience the festival. Cal’s great grandmother served as a first mate, deepening the family’s connection to the event.<\/p>\n
“This is also in memory of a young man named Cal who passed away this last fall at 3 years old. Cal was a member of the Riverfest family and his great grandmother was a first mate. Today’s theme is Cal’s Fun Crew,” said Jake Erickson, CEO of Boys and Girls Club La Crosse.<\/p>\n
The festival is prepared to handle large crowds with practical amenities. Organizers have installed 20-foot structures throughout the grounds to provide shade, giving festival-goers relief from the sun during the four-day event.<\/p>\n