Lake Fest features sun, surf, sandcastles

By Sara E. Martin, Army Flier Staff WriterMay 9, 2013

Lake Fest features sun, surf, sandcastles
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. (May 9, 2013) -- Lake Fest returns this year to West Beach on Lake Tholocco to bring Families closer together with friendly competitions, swimming and outdoor activities.

Fort Rucker's 12th annual Lake Fest is scheduled for May 18 from noon to 6 p.m.

The event began in 2002 and has continued to be a well-attended event with a laid-back atmosphere, said Brian Jackson, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation program manager.

"There will be various forms of activities such as a volleyball tournament, sandcastle contests, frozen shirt contests and free access to paddle boats and the swimming area. There will also be vendors on site selling food, beverages and crafts," he said.

The event is free and open to the public and patrons are encouraged to bring beach towels, chairs and umbrellas, as well as plenty of sunscreen.

"DFMWR will have a handful of food vendors selling a variety of food and beverages. So there is no need for attendees to bring coolers," said Jackson. "There will also be a handful of crafts vendors with unique items on sale."

Along with the competitions there will be inflatables for children, such as the slip and slide and basketball bungee game.

The sandcastle tournament will have up to 20 slots, and is on a first-come first sign-up basis. It will be held from 1-3 p.m.

"Families can create their best sandcastle in a designated area on the beach. They will have a chance to win passes to [Rucker Lanes] and Splash!," said Jackson.

The frozen shirt contest will be held at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. for children and teenagers.

"The object of this contest is to get the frozen shirt un-frozen as quickly as possible, and the winner [will be] the first one to get the shirt on," said the program manager.

The volleyball tournament will be held from the beginning to end of the event and the Physical Fitness Facility staff is in the charge of the tournament.

"There will be prizes for the top three teams, including a first prize of $80 of DFMWR bucks," continued Jackson.

There is not a specific theme for the event this year, which is DFMWR's yearly special event where patrons can enjoy a fun day in the sun.

"It's also an opportunity for patrons to become aware of outdoor recreation's services and equipment that can be utilized," he added.

Jackson said Lake Fest is a great Family-friendly event that features one of Fort Rucker's best outdoor venues.

"This event is generally the first time new Soldiers and Families stationed at Fort Rucker will get to visit West Beach and explore what the lake has to offer. There is a variety of activities ranging from swimming and playgrounds to pavilion and boat rentals -- this lake has it all," said Jackson.

"Sun, sand and swimsuits are key ingredients included in this great event, and that is a great way to kick off the summer," he added.

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