JEFFERSON COUNTY, N.Y. -- The 10th Mountain Division invaded the riverfront community of Alexandria Bay Thursday for the annual River Fest.

More than 5,000 soldiers and their families participated in the day. It's the kickoff to Mountainfest, which gives soldiers and their loved ones a chance to kick back and relax in the Thousand Islands region. They took in a boat trip across the St. Lawrence to Boldt Castle and enjoyed plenty of food and games.

The Army, along with a special events organization on post, helps put the event together every year with the goal of strengthening the solders' bond with the community.

“Well, we’re just looking forward to the camaraderie that we get with the local community and the support. The 10th Mountain Division really can’t function without great support from all of the communities of the North Country, so this is a great celebration of that,” said Major General Mark Milley.

Live music accompanied a cookout held in the village park pavilion.