The Linden Riverfront Festival 2026 was officially launched on
Tuesday at the I Love Linden Theme Park, Mackenzie, with
stakeholders emphasizing unity, tourism growth, and long-term riverfront development.
The opening ceremony brought together government officials, tourism representatives, and community leaders, all of whom underscored the importance of the festival to Region Ten’s economic and cultural landscape.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the tourism sector, Region #10 Ten Tourism Committee Chairman Lawrence Simon stressed the significance of the initiative. “Riverfront Festival should mean a lot to everybody in Linden,” he said, calling for stronger stakeholder collaboration. “Teamwork makes dream work… you need a team to successfully get things done.”
Founder of the festival, Samuel Wright, reflected on the vision behind the initiative, noting that it has helped shape public awareness over the years. “The whole idea of the Riverfront Festival is really to promote the development of the riverfront… we have made the riverfront a household word,” he stated.
Wright also highlighted the historical importance of the riverfront, explaining that it represents the origin of the township and remains central to its environmental and cultural identity.
Festival Director Devin Sears described the festival as a major tourism product capable of stimulating economic growth. “It will bring not only economic stimulation for Region 10 but also really showcase what we have to offer,” he said.
Sears outlined a series of activities planned for the CARICOM weekend, including a Riverfront Development Forum, regatta, flotilla, Parade of Nations, concerts, sporting events, and a CARICOM Food Fair.
Deputy Mayor Waignwright Betune commended the resilience of the festival’s organizers and challenged stakeholders to move from ideas to implementation. “My challenge is for us as stakeholders… to ensure that these things are done and to the benefit of Lindeners and by extension Guyana,” he stated.
He also called for greater environmental responsibility, urging residents to preserve the town’s surroundings.
The Deputy Mayor officially declared the festival open, setting the stage for what organizers promise will be a vibrant celebration of Linden’s culture, riverfront heritage, and economic potential. Linden Riverfront Festival 2026 is scheduled for July 3rd – 6th.
