LANDING, NJ (Morris County) – The 9th Annual Lake Hopatcong Block Party is scheduled for Saturday, May 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Hopatcong State Park, 260 Lakeside Blvd., in Landing. The rain-or-shine event, which offers a unique Main Street-style experience in a beautiful lakeside setting, is hosted by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation (LHF), with Live the Lake NJ as the main sponsor.
This year’s event will feature nearly 200 businesses, non-profit organizations, community groups, crafters, and food vendors. Guests will also enjoy plenty of entertainment, raffles, and giveaways.
“Everything about the Block Party is designed to showcase all the features of Lake Hopatcong that make it so appealing,” said Lee Moreau, event co-planner. “It’s also a great opportunity for everyone to renew old acquaintances and, we hope, make some new connections.”
Many Block Party favorites will be returning, like free boat rides on Lake Hopatcong Cruises’ “Miss Lotta” and trackless train rides for the young and young-at-heart. And Star Wars fans will once again enjoy fun picture opportunities with Chewbacca, R2D2, Storm Troopers and more from the 501st Legion.
A children’s scavenger hunt and activity area will be returning for families with youngsters, and adults can join in the Passport Adventure activity by checking in at sponsors’ booths to collect stamps to qualify for prizes.
New this year, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission “Agency-on-Wheels” will be available for residents to renew their boat registration and add a boat endorsement to their license (preregistration required).
In addition, those attending with their furry companions can bring them dressed for a Canine Costume Contest, and pet owners can get their questions answered during an “ask a vet” hour.
“Every year, just when I think the Block Party can’t get more entertaining and engaging, people always come forward with new ideas that keep the event fresh and exciting.” said Co-Planner Beth BaRoss.
Several demonstrations will be presented throughout the day, such as an entertaining and educational look at some amazing creatures with “Eyes of the Wild,” a casting demonstration with freshwater fishing rods with the Knee-Deep Club, and a crewing experience with Row New Jersey.
There will also be plenty of entertainment with a vocal performance from Morris County Vocational School District’s Academy for Performing Arts, some precise footwork from the An Clar School of Irish Dance, an egg-shaker parade for the little ones with the Merry Musicians, as well as strolling bards, minstrels, and merry makers from the Sparta Renaissance Faire.
Entrance to the Block Party is free. On-site parking at Hopatcong State Park will be offered on a space-available basis for a $10 cash donation. Free parking, with shuttle service, will be provided at the Landing Park Recreation Complex, Lake Hopatcong Foundation Environmental & Cultural Center, 12 Orben Drive complex, Landing shopping center, Hopatcong Senior Center, and the Wayne L. Threlkeld Hilltop Sports Complex, up the hill
from the Senior Center.
A special “Barking Lot” will be available exclusively for guests bringing their dogs to the event as it is within walking distance of the park. It is located at Full Life Assembly of God Church and will only be open if the Hopatcong State Park Lot has filled to capacity.
A parking and shuttle service map and more event information is available at lakehopatcongfoundation.org/blockparty.
“This is our ninth Block Party and it still creates so much positive buzz,” said Caitlin Doran, LHF development director. “The LHF team and a small army of volunteers always make sure it’s an event people anticipate, an annual must-do.”
