Let's start with a bit of local Civil War history...
In June 1863, Confederate forces were advancing through southern Pennsylvania, en route to take the state capital of Harrisburg. To do that, they would need to cross the Susquehanna River via the mile-long covered bridge that connected Wrightsville to Columbia. Pennsylvania militia vowed to block the Confederate advance and did so by setting fire to the bridge. The burning of the bridge successfully impeded the Confederate advance, keeping Southern soldiers from marching into Lancaster County. Days later, those same Confederate troops who were forced to turn back would fight against the Union Army at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Today, 160 years later, the historic burning of the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge is being commemorated during Riverfest. It's a three-day celebration of the river towns of Columbia, Wrightsville and Marietta set for June 23-25, 2023. In addition to Civil War reenactments at Wrightsville Riverfront Park, there will be a host of other activities that honor the heritage of these communities and highlight the abundant recreation opportunities along the Susquehanna River. All weekend long, numerous tours that you can take on foot, in a trolley or on a boat will guide you on a journey into the past. There will be street fairs, live bands, and a ton of food and fun. Check out the full schedule of events here.
The Bridge Burner Challenge Run and Paddle Race will be held Saturday morning of Riverfest. The spirit of the race is to burn the bridge before the Confederates cross. Participants will run 1.75 miles from Columbia River Park up the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail to the Iron Furnaces. Runners will collect "dynamite" (race batons) and race back to the park. Next, they'll hop in a kayak and paddle 1.25 miles across the Susquehanna north of the Covered Bridge Piers, drop off the dynamite, and paddle back on the south side of Veterans Memorial Bridge. Race winners receive custom medals and cash prizes!
In conjunction with the race, there will be a River Expo at Columbia Crossing River Trails Center that showcases the region’s vast recreational opportunities. More than 20 outfitters, organizations and river businesses will be onsite.
Riverfest's festivities kick off Friday evening at Columbia Fourth Friday, with a live band, food trucks, shopping, and food specials at downtown restaurants and the Columbia Market House. On Saturday here in Marietta, Riverfest Music Street Fair will take over Front Street between River Trail Brewing and McCleary’s Pub. From 1-6 p.m., the street will be closed to traffic for visitors to enjoy live music from three different bands on two stages, as well as artisan crafters and food trucks. On Sunday, head to the grassy lawn at John Wright Restaurant to hear traditional American folk music from Susquehanna Travellers as you watch Riverfest's grand finale. In commemoration of the 1863 bridge burning, three historic bridge piers will be lit ablaze as the story of the fateful event is retold.
We look forward to hosting you at B.F. Hiestand House during Riverfest weekend. Walk to the street fair from our historic bed-and-breakfast, or take a short drive to the other nearby activities. Join in the celebration of the rich heritage of our Susquehanna River towns during Riverfest... or come visit our quaint communities anytime!
