WICHITA, Kansas -- Wichita's biggest community celebration will see some changes this year.
Hoping to enable more families to enjoy the fun, Riverfest organizers are trying something new while turning to a familiar artist who designed their newest mascot.
You'll see a few changes at this year's Riverfest, which is set for May 31st through June 8th.
"Free with your button really means something to us, we're gonna make that happen in 2013 and hope everyone takes advantage of it," says president of Wichita Festivals Mary Beth Jarvis.
No tickets for any concerts or activities.
Got a button? You get in free.
Also changing, a price reduction for children ages 6 to 12.
From $5 down to $3.
With children five and under free, it makes the cost for a family of five to attend Riverfest less than $20.
"We really want working families to see this as a reinforced invitation to come down and enjoy the festival," explains Jarvis.
Also, Wichita Festivals revealed the artwork and mascot for Riverfest 2013.
"When you start looking at Let the Good Times Flow, the theme for this year's Riverfest so what image or what would represent that the best?" asked artist Dustin Commer.
As the designer of Riverfest artwork in 2002 with the Flying Bathtub and 2004 with Stinky the Fish, Commer introduced Ollie the Octopus.
"We do know that he is not native to Wichita waters which is okay," laughed Commer.
"It's kinda cool that it takes that many arms to grab onto those things that are famous about Riverfest and beloved by our attendees so we're excited to welcome Ollie into the Riverfest icons," says Jarvis.
Organizers have another 30 days to solidify this year's Riverfest events so if you have an idea you think would add to the culture and excitement of Riverfest, let them know.
