A bit of rain to help kick off the Beaufort Water Festival is really nothing new to those who are the most faithful to the annual 10-day event.

It seems there's always a drizzle, or at least the threat of one.

The raiin was off and on tonight, but that didn't stop thousands from turning out.

I of course left early because I melt.

Enjoy the photos below.

And we have some additional photos over at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/TheDigitelBeaufort

The Island Packet has some more words and photos on opening night; you can see them here.