LANDING, NJ (Morris County) –The 10th Annual Lake Hopatcong Block Party is scheduled for Saturday, May 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Hopatcong State Park in Landing.
The rain-or-shine event, which offers a unique Main Street-style experience with a lakeside twist, is hosted by the Lake Hopatcong Foundation, with Live the Lake NJ as the top sponsor.
“The Lake Hopatcong Block Party is not just an event,” said Lee Moreau, event co-planner. “It’s an annual tradition that brings people together to celebrate New Jersey’s largest lake and the communities that surround it.”
This year’s event will feature nearly 200 businesses, non-profit organizations, community groups, crafters, and food vendors with plenty of entertainment, raffles, and giveaways. Many Block Party favorites will be returning including a 50/50 raffle, free boat rides on Lake Hopatcong Cruises’ “Miss Lotta,” and picture opportunities with Chewbacca, R2D2, Storm Troopers and more from the 501st Legion.
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission “Agency-on-Wheels” will be available for New Jersey residents to renew a boat registration or even get a REAL ID, without having to drive to an MVC office (pre-registration required).
Entertainment includes various animal exhibits, including alpacas and exotic animals, some precise footwork from the An Clar School of Irish Dance, fishing and fireboat demonstrations, and a chance for pet owners to “ask a vet tech” at the pet stop.
Families with youngsters are covered with a children’s activity area, kids crafts, a scavenger hunt, touch-a-truck opportunities, and oversized games. Adults can join in the Passport Adventure by checking in at sponsors’ booths to collect stamps to qualify for prizes like teeth whitening, unlimited yoga, and gift cards.
“There really is something for everyone at the Block Party,” said Beth BaRoss, event coplanner. “Whether you’re a foodie, an animal lover, a boater, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, this event has it all!”
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 Christian Fellowship Church and will only be open if the Hopatcong State Park Lot has filled to capacity.
For more information, including a parking and shuttle map, visit lakehopatcongfoundation.org/blockparty.
