Boat parade returning for Lake Wallenpaupack’s 100th anniversary

Plans for the centennial celebration of Lake Wallenpaupack, set for July 24 to 26, include a revival of a decorated boat parade, which was a popular feature in the early years of Wally Lake Fest held in late August.

The Chamber of the Northern Poconos is spearheading the celebration, working with local businesses and organizations interested in participating. The boat parade on July 25, which will lead up to musical performances from a floating stage, will have the theme of “Rock the Boat – 100 Years of Hits.”

“Boats can be decorated to a music genre, song, era, artist, etc.,” said the announcement from Debbie Gillette, Chamber executive director. Marinas and private communities around Lake Wallenpaupack and others are encouraged by the Chamber to help promote the parade to their customers and residents having boat slips.

An entry form has been developed. There is a $30 entry fee. Like in the earlier boat parades, participants can compete for prizes. First place earns $500 and a trophy; second place, $250 and a trophy; third place, $100 and a trophy; and fourth place, a trophy. The deadline to register is July 20 at 5 p.m.

Among information needed for the entry form is the song or theme selection for the boat and a brief description for the announcer. Insurance information and names of everyone aboard are required.

Parade boats will line up at approximately 9 a.m. that Saturday at Spinnler’s Point.

The boat parade was a highlight of Wally Lake Fest when the late August event started in 2010 and was held for several years.

Gillette said that the Lake Wallenpaupack centennial parade will conclude in time for Wally 100, which includes live bands performing from the floating stage.

The Chamber also invites local businesses to participate by hosting events on any of the three days of the celebration, filling out another form so the Chamber will know. These events will be promoted by the Chamber.

Business sponsorships are also being encouraged by the Chamber by April 1.

A fireworks display is being discussed by the Chamber’s centennial committee.

2026 marks the 100th year since Pennsylvania Power & Light Corporation completed the concrete dam at Wilsonville, causing the former Wallenpaupack valley to become a 5,700-acre lake with 52 miles of shoreline. Its water used for hydroelectric power, Lake Wallenpaupack soon became a recreational haven and major attraction for residents and visitors to the northern Poconos. Brookfield Renewable has owned and operated the hydroelectric plant and lake since 2016.