PORT NECHES — Workers with Wagner’s Carnival have been busy setting up rides along Grigsby Avenue in anticipation of Port Neches RiverFest.

The annual festival kicks off Wednesday with Faith and Family Night. Headliner and Christian artist Jordan Feliz will perform.

Debbie Plaia, executive director of the Port Neches Chamber of Commerce, said organizers are “super excited” this year; there is a new carnival in town, lots of local talent will take to the stage as well as the band .38 Special.

Sales of RiverPasses, which allow the bearer unlimited carnival rides and entrance to the entertainment complex, have been strong as usual with about 1,300 sold.

This year’s festival, which runs Wednesday through Sunday, has something for everyone.

“We are excited that we have a lot of new vendors this year and they are bringing some really interesting and different food,” Plaia said in a previous story.

Food connoisseurs will enjoy the new such as Cajun and Hawaiian flavors as well as fan favorites.

Piggin’ Out, Rudy’s, Mimi’s are returning and a new addition includes Kyle’s Seafood.

Patrons will also catch a sighting of this year’s Miss Port Neches Chloe Cannon, Future Miss Port Neches Faith Stein, Junior Miss Port Neches Addison Blunter and Young Miss Port Neches Scout Thompson.

And don’t forget the Thunder on the Neches boat races. Safety inspection and testing begin Friday at the river with races Saturday and Sunday.

Wednesday, May 1

• 8 a.m. — Kick-off coffee, Neches Federal Credit Union, 776 Magnolia, Port Neches
• 5 – 10 p.m. — Carnival opens
• 5:30 p.m. — Entertainment complex open
• 6 p.m. — Faith & Family Opening Ceremonies, Riverfront stage
• 6:10 – 6:30 p.m. — Encounter Church Praise & Worship Team, Riverfront stage
• 7 – 8:30 p.m. — Jordan Feliz, Riverfront stage