The upcoming 28th annual Verde River Day seeks to highlight both the fragility of the river and increase its popularity as a travel destination for locals and visitors.
“This annual celebration is a tradition in Cottonwood, celebrating the extended community’s ties to an amazing resource — one of the last perennially flowing rivers in our desert state,” Verde River Valley Nature Organization Executive Director Wendy Harford stated.
Verde River Day is Saturday, Sept. 24, at Dead Horse Ranch State Park. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the park is offering free admission.
“Enjoy canoe rides on the lagoon, fishing, picnicking with family and friends, outdoor concert and presentations, information and educational booths from organizations throughout the Verde Valley, with an encore performance from the winners of the singer-songwriter competition,” Harford stated.
The day’s free activities include a climbing wall, canoe and kayak rides, sand-castle building, pottery classes and nature exhibits. Guests are invited to fish in the lagoon stocked with hundreds of pounds of catfish. Poles, bait and tackle will be provided. No fishing license is required.
Guests who show up early will enjoy a pancake breakfast, while nonprofit food vendors are providing Indian fry bread, hot dogs and hamburgers for nominal fees.
“September is a perfect time of year to enjoy the Verde River,” Harford said. “Summer’s heat is still lingering, but the chance for a refreshing paddle, a day spent under shady trees or an evening of song and poetry is a great way to usher in autumn.”
Prior to Verde River Day, the Old Town Center for the Arts on Friday, Sept. 23, opens its doors at 6 p.m. for a local river art exhibition, which will run throughout October.
“We do it to reach a different audience, and as kick-off to the annual Verde River Day at Dead Horse Ranch State Park,” Harford stated. “OTCA partners with us, and other local river organizations and outfitters, because they know and believe in the value of stewardship and conversation we all work so hard for.”
Following Verde River Day, organizers on Sunday, Sept. 25, will host two free guided canoe tours down the Verde, at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. These introductory paddle events are first come, first served, limited to 30 participants. Contact VRVNO with your request.
For more information, visit verderiverday.com.
