The Snake River Canyon has been famous for extreme athleticism (and a little showmanship) since Evel Knievel failed to clear it in 1974.

And when the Perrine Bridge became the only man-made structure from which it is legal to BASE jump year round without a permit, the canyon's attraction to extreme athletes just got stronger.

Three years ago, two Twin Falls residents decided to put that fame to work, launching "Parachutes for Kids," which quickly evolved into the Perrine Bridge Festival.

"It's a great opportunity to get involved in the community, and help out an important cause: kids with special needs," said Jessica Myers, this year's festival coordinator. "It's a great family event."

The festival features Red Bull Air Force, a group of elite aerial athletes who have reached the pinnacle of achievement in skydiving and BASE jumping, including festival founder Miles Daisher.

"He's got signature maneuvers that he jumps - multiple front flips or back flips while twisting - really something you'd see in a gymnastic arena," said Luke Seile, communications specialist for Red Bull. "This talented guy, this world-class athlete, lives in your backyard."

Daisher's most well-known move is a triple back flip with a double twist, and he'll likely perform that and other moves during the full day of aerial demonstrations on Saturday.

"What people are going to see is, not only is it an event that's for a great cause, it's going to be the top-tier athletes doing what they do best," Seile said. He noted that athletes like Daisher are committed to safety even as they perform these feats. "He's not out there to cheat death, he's out there because he wants to live his life to the fullest."

This year, the demonstrations will also include skydiving, which Seile describes as being quite different from how most people think of that sport.

"It's like the difference between driving a bus and driving a Porsche," he said. The skydivers will be using very small, controllable chutes, moving at upwards of 60 mph. "It's not only being able to control your body like a gymnast, but after you're under a parachute, being so dead-on to where you want to land. It's super-small, fast canopies that can land anywhere over anything. It's everything, a lot faster."

The event is free, but several opportunities will be available to donate to the cause the festival supports. The St. Luke's Magic Valley Health Foundation Fund for Children with Special Needs has helped more than 25 children with physical, occupational and speech therapy; wheelchair lifts and specialized seating; transportation to out-of-area specialists; respite care; learning tools and other needs of disabled children.

Today, meet the extreme athletes at lunch at Outback Steakhouse near the bridge, and the $15 cost goes to the fund.

Tonight, peruse art and auction items at the Magic Valley Arts Council, then place your bids. The artwork includes pieces submitted for an annual art contest by both children and adults, and pieces by special needs kids.

BASEjumpers are contributing to the cause as well, with a $50 per jumper donation. Many are also taking pledges, either flat or per jump. The jumper to raise the most money will win a donated head camera to film his or her exploits.

On Saturday, enjoy the demonstrations by the BASEjumpers and sky divers. Kids will find plenty to do at the carnival, which features a bounce house, tricycles, face painting, spin art, ID kits, a petting zoo, and demonstrations of gymnastics and martial arts.

Ariel Hansen may be reached at 208-735-3376 or ariel.hansen@lee.net.