Council approves Living Waters Family Gospel & River Fest permit for River Park on July 27

The Helena City Council voted to approve a permit for the Living Waters Family Gospel & River Fest, an evening event planned for July 27 that organizers said will include vendors, gospel performances and river-focused art activities.

The festival’s applicant, Faye Duncan Daniel, said the program is part of a larger initiative and is slated to run roughly 5:00–8:00 p.m. on the riverboard and levee area, with the pavilion held as a weather backup. "It's going to be just a full robust evening of of fun and and catfish and getting us accustomed to being on the rivers," Duncan Daniel said during her presentation.

Council members asked detailed questions about the footprint and public-safety measures. Organizers said site plans place activity near but not blocking the harbor entrance or the loading dock; they told the council they had clearance from the police chief, street and sanitation, and fire department staff. Staff also told the council the applicant anticipates roughly 250 attendees and will provide crowd-control and vendor arrangements.

Some council members raised concerns about potential turf damage after earlier ATV/UTV events at the river park. Organizers responded that ATVs are not part of this festival and agreed to update promotional materials to clarify routes and restrictions. Council members emphasized the city's interest in allowing events that draw visitors while protecting park infrastructure.

After brief discussion a motion to approve the permit was made, seconded and approved by the council members present. The council did not attach additional conditions on the record beyond the site-map and safety sign-offs presented at the meeting.

The council’s approval clears the applicant to begin advertising and final logistical preparations; organizers said they will move forward with outreach and vendor coordination.