By: Christopher Johnson
Families looking for a full day of summer entertainment will have plenty of options when Clare Summerfest returns to Shamrock Park on June 27.
Organized through the Clare Area Chamber of Commerce and supported by numerous local businesses and organizations, the annual event will offer everything from contests and live music to community activities, food, and fireworks.
The celebration begins even before Summerfest officially kicks off. City-wide garage sales will take place June 25 through June 27 from 8 AM to 4 PM, giving bargain hunters an opportunity to explore neighborhoods throughout the community.
On Saturday, June 27, activities at Shamrock Park will begin at 10 AM with a craft show and scavenger hunt running throughout much of the day. Visitors will also have opportunities to participate in hands-on activities hosted by the Clare County Arts Council and Jay’s Webber Center.
A variety of competitions will be featured throughout the event schedule. Early morning festivities include a pie-eating contest, followed by a burlap race, frog-jumping contest, dessert walk, balloon race, and egg spoon race. Many of the contests are divided into age groups, allowing children, teens, and adults to participate.
Several family-oriented attractions are expected to draw crowds throughout the afternoon. Children can enjoy Touch-a-Truck activities between the VFW and ballfield, while animal lovers may find themselves spending time at the goat cuddling area. Free ice cream will be available from 4 PM to 5 PM, followed by a free book giveaway for children ages 2 through 12.
Additional highlights include teddy bear races, a drawing for a free bicycle or scooter, and complimentary hot dogs and chips beginning at 6 PM. Organizers hope the wide range of activities will provide entertainment for visitors of all ages while encouraging residents to spend the day together in the park.
As evening approaches, attention will shift toward the large pavilion where the Gateway Community Band is scheduled to perform at 8 PM. The concert will provide a musical backdrop before the day concludes with one of Summerfest’s most anticipated traditions.
At dusk, fireworks will light up the sky above Lake Shamrock. Providing a colorful finale to a day dedicated to community celebration, family fun, and the beginning of another summer season in the city of Clare.
Most activities are free to attend, thanks to the support of local sponsors, organizations, and volunteers who help make the annual event possible.
