CHARLOTTE, N.C. – For the ninth straight year, the U.S. National Whitewater Center will go green for St. Patrick’s Day as part of the Green River Festival.
Thousands are expected to attend the annual festival as the facility’s whitewater channel is turned green to celebrate the March holiday.
Here are five things you need to know about the 2018 Green River Festival, which takes place Saturday, March 17.
What a (color) rush!
The festivities get started at 10 a.m. with the Color Me Green 5K Trail Run. "Taking the spirit of St. Patrick's Day straight from Ireland to the Whitewater Center trails," the Color Me Green 5K challenges racers to avoid being covered with green dye as they navigate the USNWC trail system. It's recommended (but not required) to wear white because if you stay clean — or get completely covered, which seems more likely — you could win a prize.
In addition to the race, the USNWC will have yoga at the Green River Festival. All Levels Flow will take place at the South Ridge at 11 a.m. The yoga is free, but you'll need to bring your own mat.
The weather shouldn't be a problem
First Warn Forecaster Larry Sprinkle says you'll want to bring a light jacket if you plan on going in early, as morning temperatures will be in the mid-to-upper 40s. By the afternoon, temperatures should warm up to around 60 degrees with partly cloudy skies and a slight chance of some afternoon rain showers.
There will be live music
According to the Green River Festival's Facebook page, live music will get started on the River Jam Stage at 1:30 p.m. when Kevin Maines and The Volts begin their set. After they wrap up, Rebirth Brass Band will take the stage.
The river turns green at 1 p.m.
The moment everyone will be waiting for finally happens three hours after the gates open. Admission to the festival is free, but you will have to pay $6 to park at the Whitewater Center. And even better news for dog lovers, as your four-legged friends are welcome as long as they're on a leash. Food and beverage will be available to purchase. No outside food or drinks will be allowed inside the center.
Visitors will still be allowed to kayak and raft on the green river throughout the day Saturday.
There is a special terrace access party for when the river turns green
For those looking to enjoy a more exclusive view of the green river, you can purchase tickets to the Terrace Access Party. The tickets are $45 and will be on sale until March 15.
With your ticket purchase, you get the following:
A private cash bar
Lunch between 1:30-3:30 p.m. -- The menu will feature traditional Irish offerings, such as Corned Beef
Indoor and outdoor seating
An exclusive viewing area for the green river