You don't need to head to Lake Michigan this weekend for a good beach bash. The annual "On the River" event kicked off in South Bend Friday Night. Event Organizers said over 1,300 people showed up for the first night, which was "Teen Night."
Teenager Lindsey Staszewski said, "I like the atmosphere, the loud music and the tons of games that they have and the volleyball tournament. There isn't a beach near South Bend so this kinda gives it a feel that we're right on the beach and it's really fun."
Event Director Garrett Gingerich said this year "On the River" is bigger and better than ever and that includes Teen Night. "This year we had a junior teen committee that was a part of the organizing group of over 30 teenagers in the community that represented seven different high schools." 16-year-old Nick King served on that teen committee and agrees this year's is the best party yet. "I think it's exactly what teens want. It's something for them that's planned for them."
Other teens said it's great because there's not much else to do. Nick Ortega said, "during the summer, not a whole lot." Mikayla Cocanower said, "There's not much to do in South Bend. This is a time of year when you look forward to doing something and meeting up with your friends."
No rain interrupted Teen Night but there is a chance of rain Saturday when the event continues.
Gingerich said they have a plan for that. "We've got some shelter if it rains really hard." And if it's just the heat they have to contend with, they're ready for that too. "We have the first aid tent that's here ready and able to assist if needed," said Gingerich.
