BLISSFIELD — The River Raisin Festival, a family-friendly event that brings people to the banks of the River Raisin every summer, is 40 years old this year.

Live entertainment on the Pavilion Stage, located in Bachmayer Park on the north bank of the River Raisin, will include the Miss Bliss Bicentennial Spirit Queen Pageant on Thursday, July 11, at 7 p.m. Blissfield-area women ages 70 and up will compete to be the ambassador of the July 27-28 bicentennial celebration.

The 29th annual Miss River Raisin Scholarship Competition will take place on Friday, July 12, at 6 p.m., followed by the Metro Soul Band from 9-11 p.m.

On Saturday, July 13, there will be a Blissfield Ministerial Association concert at noon, a variety show at 2 p.m., the band Stealin’ Copper from 6-8  p.m., and the band Under the Influence from 9-11 p.m.

The Kids’ Corner, under the leadership of Nikki Dotson, will offer a variety of activities including a petting zoo, arts and crafts activities, and games. There will be a calming area for kids with sensory needs. 

Friday evening will end with fireworks, presented by Uckele Health & Nutrition and co-sponsored by Blissfield State Bank.

The festival is led by Rick Allen.

The first River Raisin Festival took place in July 1984 and included a craft show, sidewalk sales, canoe race, and the Hathaway House’s traditional summer picnic. The committee chair was Anita Bailey and the committee also included David and Vivian Pell, Judy Barrett, and Jennie Buechele.