POINT PLEASANT — It is once again time for the annual Point Pleasant Sternwheel Regatta.

The event celebrates Independence Day in a big way with a variety of entertainment and activities officially begins today.

Jacob Hill, Regatta chairman, described this year’s event as being inexpensive and something that everyone can enjoy. According to Hill, all activities are free with the exception of the children’s bounce houses and riverboat cruises.

“All entertainment is free, and (the Regatta) is a family environment that is close to home,” Hill said.

The first activity of the 2009 Point Pleasant Sternwheel Regatta was the Point Pleasant Sternwheel Regatta River Princess Pageant. Eleven young ladies competed for the crown, and Katherine Deem, daughter of Deron and Missi Deem of Leon, was named this year’s River Princess. Whitney Layton, daughter of Don and Amy Layton, of Point Pleasant was crowned runner-up.

Activities officially start today with the cornhole tournament slated for 5 p.m. in front of The Mason Jar. According to Hill, the cornhole tournament is one of the many new events for this year’s regatta. Following the tournament will be the gospel evening at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park, which is scheduled to begin at 6.

The Point Pleasant Sternwheel Regatta Queen Pageant, which will feature five women vying for the crown, also is set to start at 6 p.m. at the Historic State Theater. This year’s pageant theme is “An Affair to Remember” and will feature a montage of James Bond music. Following the pageant, the crowned queen will receive scholarship money and prizes and also will reign over this year’s Regatta festival.

Tonight’s activities will wrap with music performances by Crashing Jericho and Blue Sky Falling beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Point Pleasant Riverfront Park. Blue Sky Falling is a five piece rock band based out of Point Pleasant, and draws influence from today’s modern rock and yesterday’s metal. The band has even shared the stage with national acts such as Bobaflex, Pop Evil and Stereoside.

Crashing Jericho describes themselves as a band that is passionate about bringing God glory. The band got their start in West Virginia, and has toured steadily throughout the Tri-State area.

The Regatta continues Friday and Saturday with a variety of activities.

For a complete schedule and more information, go to www.pointpleasantregatta.org.