Arts & Crafts and So Much More at Riverfest!

Sep 25, 2025

This weekend marks the return of one of Canton’s longest-running and most beloved fall traditions: Riverfest! Now in its 41st year, this two-day arts and crafts festival takes over Etowah River Park on Saturday, September 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. With hundreds of exhibitors, live performances, delicious food, and plenty of family-friendly activities, Riverfest is a celebration of creativity, community, and giving back.

What to expect

Riverfest is a weekend full of fun for everyone, whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration for your next project or simply looking to enjoy live entertainment and the cozy fall atmosphere at the park.

From handmade jewelry and woodcrafts to paintings, pottery, and textiles, Riverfest showcases over 150 talented artisans from across Georgia and the Southeast. Festivalgoers can browse a wide range of unique, one-of-a-kind items while enjoying local food trucks and concession stands serving classic fair favorites and sweet treats.

A dedicated children’s area adds to the fun with games, inflatables, a petting zoo, and even miniature train rides. For sports fans, a tailgating zone will be set up with live broadcasts of football games, making sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Entertainment for 2025

In addition to hundreds of vendors to browse and shop from, Riverfest brings two full days of live music, dance, and performances from local schools and community groups. Check out the schedule below!

Saturday, September 27

10:00 AM – National Anthem by River Ridge High School
10:30 AM – School of Rock West Cobb
12:00 PM – Carpenter Academy of Irish Dance
1:15 PM – Master Kim’s Taekwondo Education
1:50 PM – Mike Mullet
3:00 PM – North Georgia Aerials

Sunday, September 28

10:00 AM – National Anthem
10:10 AM – North GA Clogging & Dance Co.
10:45 AM – Dancentre South
11:40 AM – School of Rock Woodstock
1:15 PM – Aspire Dance Arts
2:10 PM – Therabeat, Inc.

Scarecrow Takeover!

Visitors always look forward to seeing the creative scarecrows at Riverfest, which have become one of the festival’s most beloved attractions.

Each year, local businesses and civic groups design and decorate their own creations, and after the festival wraps up, many of these scarecrows make their way to Downtown Canton, where they remain on display throughout October.

Supporting a Good Cause

Riverfest isn’t just about shopping and fun. It’s the Cherokee Service League's flagship fundraising event, with every dollar raised going directly to support children in need throughout Cherokee County.

Admission is a $7 donation at the gate (children 10 and under enter free). Parking is free, and a shuttle service runs from 9:30 AM each morning for easy access. Please note: the festival is pet-friendly, but pets are not allowed on the shuttle.

See you There!

For more than four decades, Riverfest has brought together artists, families, and neighbors for an unmissable Fall tradition at Etowah River Park.

We can't wait for you to join us this year, and don't forget to share your Riverfest memories with us on Facebook and Instagram by using the hashtag #ExploreCantonGA.

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