It’s time to mark your calendars for an event that has become a staple in the Vicksburg community.

The seventh annual Ritz on the River will be held Thursday, July 23 at 6 p.m. at the Vicksburg Convention Center, 1600 Mulberry St.

Much excitement was centered around the Vicksburg Convention Center’s announcement of the 2020 headliner, charity and theme. Announcing those three items were exciting in themselves, but the convention center’s delivery of the news also had something to do with enhancing the anticipation and enthusiasm around this year’s event.

With some help from VTV’s Alvin Coleman and Larry Walker, Annette Kirklin and her VCC team made a fun and upbeat video that highlights the event’s premier sponsor, Mutual Credit Union, and announced the headliner, charity and theme in a compelling way. The inviting video sets the stage for a successful, well-attended and fun July event.

It also showcases the creativity and ability of the VCC staff.

Mutual Credit Union has been the premier Ritz sponsor for seven years, since Ritz on the River’s inception. The bank’s commitment to community involvement in sponsoring the event year-after-year is both appreciated and admired. Their contributions have assisted the VCC with showcasing their abilities to prospective conference organizers, providing a fun community event for Vicksburg and Warren County residents, and perhaps most importantly, supporting a local charity.

Last year, Ritz donated more than $4,000 to the Warrior Bonfire Program, which was the most money the event had ever donated to its designated charity. This year, Good Shepherd Community Center is the designated charity. Continued strong support from local businesses in purchasing tables and local residents in purchasing tickets to the event will ensure the VCC is able to donate a sizeable check to Good Shepherd this year.

New Orleans based band The Phunky Monkeys will provide entertainment that is sure to please guests as they groove and dance to this year’s “phunky” and groovy disco theme. Tickets will go on sale on April 6 and are $50. They are only available in advance through Ticketmaster.com or the Vicksburg Convention Center box office.