Merced River Fest

APRIL 18th 2026

  • 2:00pm - 4:00pm at The Grove House, Mariposa

    Afternoon of FREE Wild Child Film program in partnership with Wild and Scenic Film Festival

    Showcase of the Students on the River Film Contest award winning films!

  • We believe in keeping things simple, smart, and inspired.

    We will be awarding the recipients of the 2026 Scholarship during the intermission between Youth Film Festival and the Wild and Scenic evening program.

  • We are bringing the National Wild and Scenic Film Festival to Mariposa! —in partnership with SYRCL

    Tickets on sale soon!

    Award Winning Films, delicious food and spectacular drinks from the Grove House Special Menu, & the Silent Auction Winners announcement. JOIN US APRIL 18th

Kristina Rylands-Watershed Director and Vice Chair (Right), Molly Stephens-Director (Middle), and Hannah Harrison-Director (Left)

Merced River Fest Underway! Food and Beverages for sale through the Grove House. Seating: First come, first serve.

Board Members enjoying the festival!

Silent Auction filled with art, jewelry, outdoor experiences, massages, and amazing steals on local tradesman’s work!

Wild and Scenic Showcase Through Film

What to expect…

Annie Bryant and Owen Arnold the recipients of the Holly Warner Scholarship 2025

Student on the River Film Festival

2025 River Fest Youth Films

Students from Mrs. Ouborg’s 2/3/4 grade class from El Portal School, made a film called “What is Special About the Merced River,” where they explained what about the river is important to them and their favorite things to do in nature.

The group tied for 3d place!

Noah Beas “Merced River Adventure” showcased his favorite places to walk along the Merced River Trail. With upbeat music and descriptions of his favorite things about the Wild and Scenic Merced River.

He tied for 3d place!

Join Us APRIL 18TH 2026

at

The Grove House, Mariposa

Contest Winner Recipients of 2025

Evelyn(1st place) and Canyon Carter’s films (2nd place) were accepted by their grandmother during the award showcase!

Evelyn’s film, “The Merced River” won 1st Place and captivated the audience emotionally through her poem to the river.

Carter’s film, “The Importance of Snow Surveys”was very upbeat and educational, with beautiful snowscape science and recreational fun! He was awarded 2nd Place.