The term "living history" is often used to describe immersive opportunities to discover the past. That will certainly be the case during Riverfest.

"What makes Riverfest truly special is how it blends powerful local history with vibrant community celebration - all set along the beautiful Susquehanna River," said Megan Salvatore, visitor services manager for Susquehanna National Heritage Area (SNHA), which hosts the event. "It's not just a festival; it's a living story. Where else can you stand where a covered bridge was burned to stop a Confederate invasion; race the same river route that Union troops once defended; cruise in a century-old electric boat; and then enjoy live music, local food and family fun - all in one weekend?"

Riverfest will be held from Friday, June 27, through Sunday, June 29, at locations in and around Columbia and Wrightsville.

The weekend will be packed with memorable moments, Salvatore said.

"Riverfest commemorates the 1863 burning of the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, a pivotal act during the Civil War that helped prevent a Confederate advance into Lancaster County," she said. The festivities will include the Bridge Burner Challenge, a unique run-and-paddle race that follows a scenic course along the Northwest River Trail and across the Susquehanna River.

"Participants earn a finisher's medal and experience a living tribute to local history," Salvatore said.

The Susquehanna River will play a big role in Riverfest. "From kayaking and riverside hikes to scenic boat tours on the historic Chief Uncas, the river is central to the weekend," she noted.

Trolley tours and history programs will take visitors through Columbia, Marietta and Wrightsville, while festival activities will include live music, food trucks and family-friendly activities.

New this year, Riverfest activities will also take place on the historic Mifflin property in Wrightsville, where the 1863 skirmish occurred before the burning of the bridge.

"Visitors can enjoy sneak-peek tours of the site, now with initial public access, and learn about its newly designated role in the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom," Salvatore said.

Riverfest will wrap up on June 29 with the Lighting of the Piers. "On Sunday, gather to hear the story of the 1863 bridge burning while the first three piers are set ablaze in a powerful visual tribute," Salvatore said.

As she explained, Riverfest is a signature event of the SHNA.

"Riverfest reflects SNHA's mission to connect people to the stories, landscapes and heritage of the Susquehanna River region. It's a platform for educational engagement, community involvement, promotion of outdoor recreation," she said. "Riverfest is about collaboration - with opportunities to volunteer, sponsor or exhibit at the River Expo - supporting the local economy and building regional pride."

The event is made possible through the support of many sponsors. Sponsors include John Wright Restaurant, Prince Street Cafe, LCSWMA, CPRS Physical Therapy, Family Practice Center, Sahd Metal Recycling, Discover Columbia and Rivertowne Trolley Co.

"Whether you choose to attend one event or dive into the full lineup, Riverfest is history you can feel, landscapes you can explore and a community you can celebrate with," Salvatore said. "That's what makes it unforgettable."

For a complete lineup of events, locations and times, visit https://riverfestpa.com.