Hot air balloons have become a staple of River Days Wendy Alderson
The 2025 River Days Festival came to a close on Sunday after four days of picture-perfect weather, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to downtown Midland and Chippewassee Park. The annual celebration delivered a full lineup of outdoor entertainment, river activities, and family-friendly fun, set against a backdrop of blue skies.
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Misty BarronThe Kid's Zone offered plenty of outdoor games from cornhole to checkers.
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Misty BarronYounger attendees flocked to the Kids’ Zone for face painting, games, and crafts.
Perfect summer weather made the splash pad and rides busy attractions for everyone. This year featured a Super Slide, Pirates' Revenge, and Bungy Jump for outdoor fun.
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Misty BarronAdults and kids enjoy the Super Slide at River Days
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Misty BarronThe splash pad was a favorite way to cool down during River Days.
There was plenty of fun to be had for adults as well. Nor'East Outdoors held a Kayak Poker Run. While other kayakers and canoeists enjoyed complimentary trips through downtown’s leg of the Tridge and along Chippewassee Park until mid-afternoon.
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Misty BarronThe calm, warm weather was a perfect opportunity to enjoy the water.
Throughout the festival, tents hosted local artists, nonprofits, and community groups, helping connect visitors with ongoing initiatives and creative projects in the region.
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Misty BarronPublic art, heritage displays, and community engagement blended fun with education and pride.
No day would be complete without delicious food and drinks. This year featured an array of food trucks, cheeseburgers, and brews courtesy of Midland Rotary, along with a Lions Club chicken dinner.
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Misty Barron
Finally, what would Midland's River Days be without the roar of hot air balloons sparking to life and filling the sky with color? This year, 15 filled the skies over Midland.
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Wendy AldersonThe former RE/MAX balloon festival was absorbed into River Days eight years ago.River Days would not be possible without the
Midland Area Community Foundation, volunteers, and sponsors. If you're interested in next year's event, visit
online.
Misty Barron is a Mid-Michigan native who has proudly called Midland her home for the past six years. She served as Editor-in-Chief for the Delta Collegiate, where she earned various awards for her writing, including Journalist of the Year in 2023 from the Michigan Community College Press Association. In her free time, Misty enjoys spending time with family and friends and enjoying all our beautiful state has to offer.
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