RUMFORD – The Moontide Water Festival’s first big fund-raiser kicks off April 10 at the Eagles Hall where supporters can enjoy the vaudeville of the Wright Brothers and a New England boiled dinner.

The newly formed committee has been meeting nearly every week, planning the four-day event in July, ending with a spectacular fireworks display on July 4.

To fund the festival, committee President Matt Plante said at least $40,000 must be raised. The town has already promised $10,000 toward the event. The committee is using a few thousand dollars left from the previous committee to get things started.

The 12-person committee is also planning future fund-raisers, including a golf tournament at Oakdale Country Club in Mexico in May, and this week, a major fund drive when more than 450 letters will be distributed by committee member Eddie Shurtleff to businesses in the River Valley and others in the southern part of the state.

So far, the committee has nailed down the Carr Shows carnival, which will be set up on Congress, Exchange and River streets for the July 1-4 festivities. There is also a car show and possible motorcycle show at the MeadWestvaco parking lot at the rear of the American Legion, several bands and other performers downtown, a petting zoo and children’s activities tent, the River Valley Chamber of Commerce duck race, a 5K foot race, and craft and vendor booths. Craftspeople who want to participate should contact Angella Roberts at 369-9138.

For the first time, the committee will work with the art community and produce a presentation or art exhibit along or near Congress Street.

Plante said at least 1.5 tons of fireworks will cap the festival when they are launched over the reflection pool of the Androscoggin River at 9:15 p.m. on July 4.

The annual event generally draws thousands of people from throughout the state. Other events for the four days are also being planned.

Along with the 12-member committee, nearly 50 people have volunteered to help out in some way. More are needed to help with fund-raisers or during the festival. The next meeting of the committee is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 6, at Roberts’ office on Exchange Street.

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