2023 Island Park Festivals draws over 200 for food, games and entertainment

Frank Andruscavage, Republican & Herald, Pottsville, Pa.
·2 min read

Aug. 19—SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Sunny skies, good food, games and entertainment brought over 200 people Saturday to the 2023 Island Park Festival.

Gary J. Hess, a Schuylkill County commissioner and president of the Island Fundraising Committee, said he was pleased with the turnout.

When 3:30 p.m. rolled around, people began gathering, some with folding chairs in preparation for seeing a night filled with entertainment, refreshments and friendship.

"This is remarkable," Hess said.

He explained that the festival started in 2007 and to date, the committee has raised more than $1 million.

All the money received through the festival, along with other fundraising events, such as a Pumpkin Patch, Chicken BBQ and Rock the Island, along with private and corporate donations, has been responsible for upgrades to the park, including a ball field, pavilion and extension of the concession stand.

"The whole thing is magical," Hess said. "Every year, upgrades get done."

Hess' wife, Sandy, watched people entering the area designated for the festival and commented on the park's growth.

"Events like this allow for the continued development of Island Park," she said.

Brian and Shaheen Davis, along with their children — Rocco, 3, and Myra, 7 — were driving from their home in Shrewsbury in York County to the cabin of a friend in Luzerne County when they learned of the festival.

As the children played games, Shaheen Davis said she was glad the family stopped to enjoy the food, the fun and the beautiful weather.

"I saw it online, and it directed me to Facebook," she said. "It's something different, and we're having fun and glad we stopped."

Rocco and Myra waited patiently to get fresh-made cotton candy courtesy of Crown Entertainment and Supply LLC of Ashland, while mom and dad enjoyed their children having fun.

Joan Cook, of Cressona, came to the festival with her grandchildren — Luke and Paige Moyer.

Cook said despite living nearby, Saturday was her first time at the festival.

"It's a good day out," she said. "This is my first time here, but it won't be my last."

Attendees were able to take horse-drawn carriage rides courtesy of Running Spring Farm, relax in the beer garden for adults, listen to a live broadcast from radio station T-102 FM and feast on funnel cakes, ice cream and more.

"We have something for everyone; all they have to do is come and enjoy," Sandy Hess said.

Entertainment included music by Sapphire and Another Side; a magic show by The Magic and Illusion of Clive Allen and Heather Lynn; and comical presentations by Wagstaff and Co.

Gary Hess said fundraising efforts by the committee are making Schuylkill Haven a better place by giving people an area they can enjoy recreational activities in.

Contact the writer: fandruscavage@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6013