by Michelle Watson
The first annual Bash at the Lake held over the weekend in City Park was such a success it exceeded every expectation the planners had for it.
“I am so grateful for our community – from the organizational team, to the volunteers, bands, businesses, churches, everyone who made this event such a success,” said Brad Barber, founder of United to Serve with Passion and Purpose who, in partnership with One Vision, provided the foundation to put this event together. “It literally brings tears to my eyes to have witnessed everyone coming together to put this on.”
The day began at 11 a.m. and featured many different activities, from bounce houses, to games, dunk tank, food vendors and many other activities. Mid-afternoon, children flocked to the bandshell stage to welcome, Go Fish, a musical group who provided the curriculum for the week-long community-wide Vacation Bible School, which was also part of Bash at the Lake. Awaken the Dust, a newly formed local Christian band, shared their worship music prior to the headliner, Rend Collective, a Northern Irish Christian folk rock band.
According to numbers compiled by the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce, approximately 6,700 people made their way in and out of City Park on Saturday. Peak attendance was from 6-8 p.m. with over 4,000 people enjoying Rend Collective.
“At the end of the day, we reflected on the fact that only God could bring together all the needed pieces in this narrow time frame. We were so encouraged by the show of support from our community and the people of North Iowa,” said Starr Benjamin, one of the main facilitators for the day. “I believe it is safe to say we are excited to start planning Bash at the Lake 2024!”
Barber said to stay tuned for a big announcement on Nov. 1, 2023, regarding next year’s Bash at the Lake.
