How to go
What: The fifth annual Great Miami River Days
Where: Neilan Boulevard by the river in Hamilton
When: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13
Cost: $5 parking at Vora Technology Park and Miami University Hamilton
More info: Visit online at greatmiamiriverdays.org.
HAMILTON — Get ready to dive into the action at the Great Miami River Days.
The fifth annual event conducted on Neilan Boulevard by the river happens Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12-13.
After word got out months ago that the committee voted to shut down the water education festival this year, an anonymous donor offered to match other contributions up to $25,000.
With the continued support of Miller Brewing Co. and new sponsors Ivey Funeral Home at Rose Hill Burial Park, US Bank and Chaco Credit Union, event chairman Tony Traub said, “The funding all fell right in place.”
While the boating races won’t happen this year and there won’t be a sand sculpture, other staple events and some new features are expected to attract bigger crowds than last year’s attendance of 50,000.
Wake Nation and Mastercraft are partnering to provide wakeboarding demonstrations, an event that is returning after a hiatus from the River Days lineup; other water entertainment will be provided by the Badgerland Water Ski Show Team and the jet ski duo of Typhoon Tommy and Rambo Rosie, Traub said.
The Great Miami Rowing Center is partnering with the national organization Row for the Cure to provide events on Saturday.
The straight line course starts at the Columbia Bridge and ends upstream from the dam. Participants are encouraged to raise money for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, but it is not required, said Frances Mennone, executive director of the Great Miami Rowing Center.
“We’re excited about the features that we hope to bring, two 1,000 meter lane lines,” Mennone said.
Land attractions include inflatable rides for children, big time wrestlers, the Wheelie Wizard, more than 20 water-related, educational booths and a historic re-enactment camp.
About the Author