Friday, April 29, marked the first Singing River Music Fest where local artists in and around the Shoals performed for the community.

At 11 a.m., Kat Elizabeth kicked off the festival at the UNA Memorial Amphitheater, followed by artists JB and DJ C. Battle at noon, Sailour at 1 p.m. and West Means Home at 2p.m.

Freshman Zarif Shaman said he did not like the crowd turnout for this portion of the show.

“The shows, I enjoyed,” he said. “The people were amazing. (It’s) not the right timing for a show like this because most people have classes.”

Rain and thunderstorms struck just before the scheduled 3 p.m. performance, and festival attendees took shelter in Flowers Hall.

The remainder of the festival took place at the Mane Room at 301 N. Pine Street.

Willis kicked things off in the new location around 6 p.m., followed by The Sun. The Moon., Jet Black Alley Cat, The Bear & The Bride, OLDSPORT, Jordy Search, Future Thieves and firekid.

Senior Brooke Lytle said she thinks the Singing River Music Fest was “awesome.”

“I’ve been here for maybe 5 years, and I haven’t ever experienced anything like that, so I think it’s really cool,” she said.

Head of the UPC Live Acts Committee Alex Hughes said the Singing River Music Fest has been an unforgettable experience.

“I just want (the community) to know how incredible these groups have been, these bands have been, how incredible the entertainment industry students are, how incredible the committee for live acts is and how thankful I personally (am) for all of their help,” Hughes said.

The weekend will conclude with the spring concert featuring Apollo LTD and Panic! At the Disco. Doors at Flowers Hall open at 7 p.m.