ALTON, Ill. — This weekend, boat and music lovers will get a chance to cool down along the Mississippi River. Two major events are happening in Alton, bringing powerboat races, blues, and rock and roll to the riverfront.
"This is a Formula 1 race boat," driver Dylan Anderson said while showing off his prized possession. "We run 110 to 120 mph."
In town from Nashville, he's competing this weekend for the F1 Powerboat Races Championship in Alton. And he's ready.
"We go on a turn, no brakes, no nothing. You hit a trim button, dump the air out of the tunnel and you turn at 120, pull 6 to 7 G's at a turn,” he said, explaining the thrill of the race.
Friday evening, fans and music lovers gathered to kick off the races, while meeting some of the drivers that will take to the water.
"They get to meet the drivers and put a personality with the boat,” Organizer Tim Seebold said. “1992 was the last time we raced here."
It will also be the first time for another major event happening once the races wrap up for the day on Saturday.
"The original Mississippi River Festival was at SIUE from 1969 to 1980, so we’re bringing it back after 44 years right here at the Alton riverfront,” said Festival Organizer Nick Bifano.
The festival touted big names back in the day.
"Janis Joplin, BB King,” Bifano pointed out.
He said it's time to bring the music back. Saturday, Grammy Award winner Larkin Poe will take the stage following other musical acts.
"Tyler Brown and the Shakedown, Fast Ball which folks remember their big hits from the 90's, and then St. Louis' own Feel is opening,” Bifano explained.
Two big events making their big return with the Mississippi River offering the backdrop for family friendly fun.
"It's great for the economy,” Seebold said.
"I can't think of anything better than high volume motor sports and high-volume rock and roll,” Bifano added.
The powerboat races begin at 9am Saturday. They will continue Sunday.
Musicians will begin performing at the Mississippi River Festival at 6 p.m. Saturday.