Countdown to one of the area’s top annual attractions is on and it’s gearing up to be a memory maker as Wally Lake Fest returns for a fifth year setting its sights on another stellar performance August 22 through 24. Hawley’s Lake Wallenpaupack is the place to be as the popular resort becomes a nonstop bed of excitement filled with music, food and entertainment both on and offshore all weekend long.
As many face the impending summer slow down with Labor Day on the horizon, the concept to keep the party going making Lake Wallenpaupack synonymous for summer fun has host, Downtown Hawley Partnership and presenter Lighthouse Harbor Marina eager to invite everyone to experience what all the fuss is about.
Sarah O’Fee comments on the evolution of this monumental gathering stating, “We are thrilled to see a weekend that was notoriously slow turn into one of the biggest weekends of the year.” She adds, “Every year we’ve added more events, giveaways andactivities [and] look forward to what the future holds for Wally Lake Fest.” She takes a moment to thank the community, “For continuing to support this end of summer celebration!”
A Friday kickoff is planned August 22 with a variety of music set to echo from restaurants. Like Jazz? Got it. Like Rock? Got it. How about a little tropical escape right here in PA? No airfare required.
Ehrhardt’s Pub transforms into a Hawaiian paradise with a Luau planned from 4 to 6 p.m. The town of Hawley comes alive starting at 5 and running to 10 p.m. with the Settlers Inn’s own Mardi Gras style New Orleans Jazz and BBQ. Reservations are strongly suggested for the meal as it fills up fast.
It’s smooth sailing Saturday with live music afloat via the return of the Battle of the Bands! With a floating stage in front of Tafton Dike and LW Visitors Center as the ring; three bands Blue London, Tribes and Merchants of Groove will duke it out belting their best tunes throughout the day in this FREE event.
Lake Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tour invites visitors to soak it all in aboard a kayak or SUP [Stand Up Paddleboard]. Based on availability, they’re offering hourly rates of $10 for you to navigate the waters and cruise the band area enjoying the aqua amusement.
Night falls with no slow downtown in Hawley hosting an assortment of festivities including a Car Cruise in Dime Bank parking area and DJ Ricky Z spinning the tunes from 5 to 9 p.m. Wallenpaupack High School Marching Band shows their talent entertaining in the AMSkier Insurance Agency gazebo while families enjoy an Ice Cream Social.
Sunday there’s more in store on and off shore, with a New England Clambake N Brew at The Boat House Restaurant. Rubber Duckie Boat Rentals offers a water way to enjoy the weekend wind down with friends, offering over 25 boats to choose from including Pontoon, Pleasure and Ski Boats.
With too much to list, absorb this tasty tidbit and plan your summer send off at Wally Lake Fest. Daily updates will be posted online at www.wallylakefest.com with a brochure listing the festival’s complete schedule of events available at the Visitors Center and other area businesses.
