Riverfire in Berlin on Oct. 22, 2011

Just as the nights are getting colder in New England, the City of Berlin will be warming things up with one of the best fall festivals around—RiverFire! On Saturday, October 22^th, come to “the city that trees built” to catch a full day of fun, ending with some dramatic fires on the river.

Voted “Best of NH 2007” by New Hampshire Magazine, RiverFire burns bigger and brighter every year, and this year there are some fun new activities for everyone. Starting at 1:00pm, the gates of the Northern Forest Heritage Park, 961 Main Street, Berlin, NH will open to activities and vendors for visitors of ALL ages. Admission to the park is FREE.

This year there will be hot air balloon rides, and a children’s bouncy village with inflatable houses. Admission to the bouncy houses, as well as many other children’s activities and a classic hayride will have a fee. For adventurous folks 13 and up, a 2-acre haunted village called “Horrorfest” will be presented by Theatre North. Enter if you dare for an admission price of $8!

At dusk, the Androscoggin River will be lit up with fires that appear to be floating on the water! The blazes will actually burn on the historic boompiers that dot the river. These piers were used during the height of the logging era, when they separated and guided the many trees that were sent down the river to the mills of Berlin. For RiverFire, these old piers will be stacked with skids, which when set aflame create a dynamic contrast of light over the dark waters. Take a walk along the bridge and admire the wonderful glowing carved pumpkins. It is a spectacle you won’t want to miss! FMI: 603-752-6060 or find RiverFire Berlin, NH on Facebook.

RiverFire promises to be the hottest event of the season!