Bradford Era – by Savannah Barr

Arts on the Island returns to Hamlin Lake Park for its eighth year on Sept. 6 to 7. Hosted by the McKean County Historical Society, the event is two days of art, live music, food and family fun. This year, organizers hope to make a splash with the newly added cardboard boat race.

The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each day will feature artisans and crafters, live music and plenty of food vendors. Horse and pony rides will be available Saturday.

The new cardboard boat race is expected to spark plenty of creativity. Participants, who can be individuals or teams, will build boats made entirely out of cardboard and race them across the shortest stretch of Hamlin Lake, from the island to Willow Street.

“To help stick them together and keep the water out of them, people can also use duct tape, paint, and sealants like spray foam and Flex Seal,” said Steve Tarbox, organizer.

Because this is the first year for the boat race, there will be no entry fee. Read More