Franklin to host Rock in River festival Aug. 20

“One of the great things about this festival is the family feeling of brotherhood among the professional skippers who come here,” said Ronnie Beith, the Franklin events and marketing coordinator. “It is like a family reunion every year,” she added.

The youth division for ages 12 and younger will run from 11 a.m. to noon., and the amateur division for ages 13 and older will be held from noon to 1 p.m.

The professional division, including those who qualified during the amateur competition with 30 skips, will get underway at 2:30 p.m.

Awards will be given out immediately following each division.

Among those expected to compete in the professional category are the Guinness world record holder Kurt “Mountain Man” Steiner and 2021 Pennsylvania champion Dave Ohmer.

While the day is centered around kerplunking, the festival offers other activities for spectators and fans.

The family-friendly variety show “Mr. Joe Show” will take place at 12:15 p.m. Also, there will be the annual rock decorating tent, kids crafts and games, food and kayak demonstrations.

Parking along Ninth Street, where the park is located, is limited. Attendees are encouraged to use nearby lots on Elk and Buffalo streets.

Along with the shops and restaurants in downtown Franklin, there will be a variety of activities throughout the weekend.

The schedule on Friday, Aug. 19, includes Yak ‘n Java at 8:30 a.m., Hunter Cook in concert at the Benjamin’s Restaurant patio from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Ruby in concert at Bella Cucina’s patio from 6 to 8:30 p.m., and the play “Black Coffee” at the Barrow-Civic Little Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Aug. 20, the farmers market will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. around the 12th Street Island. “Black Coffee” will be performed again at 7:30 p.m., and there will be live music in the evening at FoxTales and Trails to Ales II.