The 2018 festival, titled ‘Light up the River’, was a one-day event, rather than a two day event, held on Saturday, October 27, which celebrated life in the Shoalhaven. 

Festival committee treasurer Michelle Maconchie said the event was “absolutely wonderful”. 

“I think this was the best festival we’ve ever had,” she said. 

“The format has changed and it was a lot more about the people attending which was absolutely wonderful.” 

This year’s program featured some new events, including the twilight boat parade. The river was illuminated by amazing sculptures of river themed creatures, all of which were handcrafted by local artists. 

READ MORE: Sun shines for new-look Shoalhaven River Festival

“The parade was was just lovely and people really seemed to enjoy it,” Ms Maconchie said. 

“This was the first time we’d done it and because it was such a hit we’re planning to make it a lot bigger next year.” 

During the day, the river was a playground for jetskis and ski boats for the state title rounds. 

The jetpack adventurers, Iron Man and Spiderman, also drew huge crowds to the river bank, as they flipped and twirled through the air. 

The traditional smoking ceremony and the fireworks display were also some of the standout events of the day, according to Ms Maconchie. 

“The Indigenous smoking ceremony was beautiful and something that we will be bringing back next year,” she said.

“People were saying the fireworks were the best they’d ever seen in the region.” 

More than 100 market stall holders also hit the event, with food, craft, clothes and more on offer. The live music and children’s Artznoe were also well-received by the community. 

Ms Maconchie was thankful for the wonderful weather, which drew thousand to the river. 

“It was a great event and the committee is just so happy with how everything went,” she said.