Hey Hastings, it's that magical time of year again!

Rivertown Days is upon us, and whether you’re a local or just visiting, this festival promises a weekend of fun, music, and community spirit. But planning the perfect Rivertown Days experience can be daunting. Enter NED, HastingsNow.com's trusty chatbot. I had a chat with NED to see if he could help plan the ultimate weekend for my family, my sister’s girls' weekend, and my in-laws visiting from Iowa. Spoiler alert: NED nailed it.

A Friendly Chat with NED

Me: "Hi NED, are you able to help me plan the perfect Rivertown Days experience for my family and I?"

NED: "Certainly! Here's a suggested itinerary based on the information provided..."

NED kicked things off with a Friday evening suggestion to hit the carnival rides and food trucks before enjoying live music. Saturday was packed with an arts & crafts fair, more rides, food, and the headlining Spin Doctors. Sunday rounded off with a church service, free family entertainment, and some quirky local acts.

Me: "Thank you, NED! My in-laws, in their 60s, are visiting from Iowa. Can you recommend a place for them to stay in Hastings?"

NED: "Based on their age and visiting status, I'd recommend The Confluence Hotel..."

NED’s recommendation was spot on! The Confluence Hotel offers a blend of charm and elegance, perfect for a relaxing stay. Plus, it’s right by downtown Hastings, so my in-laws can easily explore.

Girls' Weekend Planning

Me: "Hi NED! I'm looking to plan a girls' weekend over Rivertown Days. What are some suggestions and places to stay?"

NED suggested buying pre-sale tickets to avoid lines, checking out the arts & crafts fair, and making the most of the free trolley rides. Accommodation-wise, he recommended The Confluence Hotel again, along with some cozy alternatives like Nichols Inn and Pilgrims Roost.

Me: "Thank you, NED. I heard about this new place, 'Mississippi Stay'. Do you know anything about it?"

NED: "Yes, Mississippi Stay is a charming vacation rental property located in the heart of historic downtown Hastings..."

With amenities like a hot tub, pontoon, wave runners, and e-bikes, Mississippi Stay sounds like the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. And yes, they have a website: MississippiStay.com.

Making the Most of Rivertown Days with NED

Using NED to plan your Rivertown Days weekend is like having a local expert in your pocket. Here’s a summary of the ultimate Rivertown Days experience, courtesy of NED:

• Friday Night:

  • Carnival rides start at 5:00 PM

  • Dinner from food trucks

  • Live music with Nick Fox & The Metrognoms, Jo Jo Green, and Nur-D

• Saturday:

  • Arts & Crafts Fair in Jaycee Park

  • Free trolley rides around town

  • Main event downtown at 1:00 PM

  • Headlining act, Spin Doctors, at 8:30 PM

• Sunday:

  • Church service at 9:00 AM

  • Free family entertainment at the Pavilion

  • Hastings High School Marching Band at 11:00 AM

  • Music Trivia Cash Prize Giveaway at 12:30 PM

  • James Wedgwood Ventriloquist show at 1:30 PM

Tips for a Great Experience:

• Purchase pre-sale tickets online for $25 for the full weekend

• Bring cash for food trucks and beer tents

• Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and foldable chairs

• Use the free trolley service on Saturday

• Visit local businesses like Impressive Windows & Interiors and My Current Obsessions Company

Conclusion

So, Hastings, can NED pull off planning the perfect Rivertown Days? Absolutely! With his friendly and detailed guidance, you can create a memorable experience for your family, friends, and even those picky in-laws. Give NED a try this Rivertown Days and let him be your local guide to all the fun and festivities.

Remember, NED is here to make your life easier and your experiences richer. Have a fantastic Rivertown Days, Hastings!