Two of the city's annual summer events will merge this weekend at Susquehanna State Park.
For the first time, Home Made Days - formerly spelled HoMade - moves there alongside the annual Susquehanna River Fest. Previously, Home Made Days was staged in Brandon Park.
Funds raised from the weekend are to support the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat and Williamsport YMCA.
Organizers predict the breeze and the shade along the river, combined with parking and live entertainment, will make the new location an ideal craft and vendor summer destination.
"Having a craft event in the park during the day along with bands and fireworks in the evening on both days is an excellent opportunity for crowds to enjoy the Hiawatha, the state park and also support local and regional crafters," said Bill Nichols Jr., president of the Hiawatha Board.
The park facilities have new bathrooms and manicured landscaping, complemented by lots of parking and easy access to craft and food vendors.
Crowds at River Fest typically include boaters and people attracted by the activity, food, music and fireworks that end the Saturday night event.
The hours are from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday with vendors and food booths operating into the evening. The stage will feature the band Lumpy Gravy from 9 to 11 p.m.
On Saturday, craft booths will open at 9 a.m, while on the main stage Black 'n Blues will perform from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by the Jimmy Buffet tribute band Parrot Beach at 7:30 p.m.
Fairfield Auto Group will sponsor fireworks at 9 p.m. A "small donation" for admission will be charged for Saturday night entertainment.
The River Fest is a benefit for the Hiawatha River Boat and over the years has featured boat races, water skiing shows, concerts, fireworks, rib cook-offs, duck derbies, boat and spa giveaways, children's games, horseback rides, seafood, fine dining and diamond ring contests.
All of the activities have helped offset the cost of operating the river attraction.
Home Made Days is an established event that has been running for nearly 20 years.
