Pickleball at Ogdensburg International Festival: The countdown is on for the Ogdensburg International Seaway Festival, a beloved local tradition that runs from July 20 to July 28. This year, the festival promises a week packed with music, games, and friendly competition, ending in a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the sky.
Exciting New Addition: Pickleball Tournament
At the heart of the festivities is a new addition that reflects the growing enthusiasm for pickleball. Organizer Chris Lalone noted the impressive interest, with between 40 and 60 players already signed up for the inaugural pickleball tournament. If registrations continue to surge, there’s even talk of adding an extra day to accommodate everyone eager to take part.
“Pickleball is a big thing right now,” Chris Lalone emphasized, capturing the essence of the sport’s rising popularity. This tournament will join the returning three-on-three basketball competition, which made its debut last year, showing the festival’s commitment to evolving with community interests.
Festival Favorites and Community Spirit
As Ogdensburg’s largest event of the year kicks off, attendees can look forward to time-honored favorites like the Battle of the Bands, firefighter kids’ games, and, of course, the annual parade. The festival not only attracts residents but also draws hundreds from across the county and even from neighboring Canada, turning the event into a homecoming for many who return to reconnect with friends and family.
Behind the scenes, Chris Lalone and the Seaway Festival committee are tirelessly working to expand and improve the event. However, they can’t do it alone. Community support in the form of donations and volunteers is crucial for the festival’s continued growth. Chris Lalone highlighted the committee’s efforts to bolster events like RiverFest and various craft fairs, all aimed at offsetting the rising costs associated with organizing such a large-scale celebration.
How to Contribute to the Pickleball Tournament
For those wishing to contribute, several avenues are available. Whether it’s offering time as a volunteer or making a financial donation, every bit helps. Merchandise, including festival buttons and t-shirts, can be purchased at local establishments like Community Bank and St. Lawrence Federal Credit Union, as well as online. Larger sizes are available at River Rat Designs, with special orders for hoodies and tank tops also an option.
Activities and Attractions
This year’s button blitz has been particularly successful, with buttons remaining available throughout the festival. Duck Race tickets are still on sale, adding to the excitement and community involvement.
While carnival rides may not return this year, the festival still offers a wealth of activities. Attendees can look forward to a classic car show, live music at Library Park, tug-of-war contests, a challenging 10-mile canoe race, and a 5K foot race. For the younger attendees, a bounce house will be available on fireworks night, providing affordable entertainment for families.
Returning highlights include the craft show at Lockwood Arena, the Sandbar Classic, and even a petting zoo, ensuring that there’s something for everyone at this year’s festival.
Lalone expressed heartfelt appreciation for all the sponsors who have stepped up to support the event, encouraging the community to come out and enjoy the festivities. The Ogdensburg International Seaway Festival stands as a testament to what can happen when a community comes together to celebrate its shared interests, and this year promises to be more vibrant than ever.
News in Brief: Pickleball at Ogdensburg International Festival
The Ogdensburg International Seaway Festival runs from July 20 to July 28, featuring a week of music, games, and a grand fireworks display. A new highlight this year is an inaugural pickleball tournament, with 40 to 60 players already signed up, showcasing the sport’s rising popularity. Festival favorites include the Battle of the Bands, firefighter kids’ games, and the annual parade, drawing attendees from across the county and Canada. Community support through donations and volunteers is vital for the festival’s growth. Activities include a classic car show, live music, a canoe race, and a petting zoo, ensuring something for everyone. Organizer Chris Lalone expresses gratitude to sponsors and encourages everyone to join in the festivities.
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