By Andrew Firestone

Sunset on the banks of a lazy river is the All-American way to relax on a hot September day. And Somerville residents were able to experience their ambling Mystic River at the second Riverfest on Saturday.

Families came to the event sponsored by the Federal Reality Investment Trust in anticipation for the development of Assembly Row, to enjoy face-painting, an enormous castle moonwalk and tricks onstage by “Professor” Danny Haste. At evening, a fireworks show lit up the sky.

EkOngKar Singh Khalsa, executive director of the Mystic River Watershed Association was on hand, and spoke optimistically of the rivers recreational future. “[This development] will create a lot more interest in the river, because there will be a lot more access and as people spend more time near the river… they become more invested in the health of the river.”

– Photos by Andrew Firestone