RiverFest started in a mall parking lot on July 4th, 1986.  The first crowd was estimated at 1,000 â€" 1,500.  Local musicians played from two flatbed trucks.  Fireworks, hotdogs, and soft drinks were added to create the ideal Southern “Fourth of July” Celebration.   In 1987, RiverFest moved to a site next to Gadsden State Community College and the spectators grew to approximately 5,000 people.  In 1990, the event moved from July to the second weekend in June and the location changed to its current site, on the banks of the Coosa River along Highway 411, a four lane state highway.  This also was the year that named entertainers were hired, “The Manhattans” and “The Forrester Sisters” were the first named entertainers to take the stage and play to a paying crowd, along with the change in location and talent, crowds were estimated at ten to twelve thousand each of the two nights.  More emphasis was placed on attracting the younger audience so a Children’s Festival was initiated, recognizing that the children would bring their parents and grandparents.  “The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” were the hottest act for youngsters and they made a Saturday morning appearance to what was estimated at 3,000 to 4,000 kids.
All Types of Vendors including food and Arts n Crafts.