beadartistThe hubby and I took advantage of his rare day off and the even rarer nice weather and headed to the IKEA Renton River Days.  We’ve lived in Renton for 23 years and went often when the kids were little, but we haven’t been in years.  I was pleasantly surprised to see that it was not crowded thanks to great planning on the part of the organizers and there was still plenty to do.

For the kids there were lots of great activities in the Kids Zone– inflatable bounce houses, mini golf, a rock climbing wall, and more.  But it was the simple fun of getting wet that appeared to draw the crowds.  Provided by the Renton Fire Department, kids got the opportunity to spray a fire hose with the added bonus of dousing other kids – a hot day and fire hoses makes for some instant fun!

The main stage provided live music (both kid-centric and adult).  We got the chance to enjoy Creme Tangerine, a Beatles cover group, and Batch a group of young artists (19-24) who performed original music.  Both were fabulous and we we very comfortable in the covered tent provided in case of rain or shine.

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Like any good party, there was plenty of food.  The Nibble of Renton didn’t disappoint for fun and interesting food choices (although there weren’t many options for this vegetarian).  The hubby went for a BBQ chicken sandwich from Jimmy Mac’s Roadhouse and I got a baked potato and corn on the cob (sorry, I don’t remember the name of the vendor) – delicious!  The skinny minnie husband also went back and got an Ivar’s Fish and Chips basket of fish and fries as a chaser.  I opted for Cinnamon Roasted nuts – pecans, almonds, and cashews….heaven!  There were the typical fair offerings as well – deep fried everything (weird) and a Krispy Kreme Bacon Cheeseburger (we passed).  I did have blackberry lemonade, too. Mmmmm…..

We also ran into the Cedar River Quilt show going on inside the Renton Public Library as well as the library’s annual book sale.  We shopped the stalls at the Art Market and I purchased a stunning necklace and bracelet set.  I’ll highlight a few of the vendors in the next few days, but I wanted to get this up right away for anyone looking for something free/cheap to do today (July 24).

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SUNDAY SCHEDULE – IKEA RENTON RIVER DAYS

Download the 2011 IKEA Renton River Days Festival Schedule 

Art Market, KidZone, Information Booth, Main Stage, and Nibble of Renton – 10am-6pm

Cedar River Quilters Annual Quilt Exhibition and annual book sale – Renton Public Library, 12pm – 4 p.m.

Directions, Parking, Shuttle and Street Closures – We parked at Renton Stadium and took the Cedar River trail.  It was a short and pleasant walk along the river; however, there is a shuttle from the parking lot to the event as well.

I may just have to go back on Sunday for more nuts…..er, I mean photos 🙂

Enjoy!
:me: