Our partners at the Jacobs Creek Watershed Association have two events on the calendar this summer, and both are good excuses to get outside and support clean water in the Laurel Highlands. One is a quiet evening on the water, the other a full-on celebration in a historic barn. Here is what is happening.
Sunset Paddle at Acme Dam, July 10
First up, on Friday, July 10 from 7:30 to 9 p.m., JCWA is hosting a Sunset Paddle at Acme Dam in Chestnut Ridge Park. Picture a calm evening on the water as the sun drops behind the Laurel Highlands, fireflies coming out, and not much to do but paddle and take it in. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent, paddles and life jackets included, or you can bring your own boat and save on admission. It is open to all ages, and minors just need a parent or guardian along. Registration is required.
Headwaters Party at West Overton Barn, August 29
Then, on Saturday, August 29 from 4 to 8 p.m., the celebration moves to the historic West Overton Barn for JCWA’s Headwaters Party, an evening built around community, connection, and conservation. The spread leans local: a farm-to-table dinner catered by Espey’s Meat Market, fresh pies from Sand Hill Berries, and a bar pouring local beer, local wine, and West Overton Whiskey. There will be live music, a basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, custom caricatures by Adam Walmsley Art, and family-friendly activities throughout the evening.
Tickets are $45 for adults (21+), $80 for couples (21+), $25 for ages 8 to 20, and free for children 7 and under. Pre-registration is required, and if you want to skip the online processing fees, you can stop by the JCWA office or mail a check. Every dollar goes back into JCWA’s work: watershed restoration, environmental education, recreation, and community clean-ups across the Jacobs Creek Watershed.
Two very different evenings, same good cause. Whether you are in the mood for a peaceful paddle or a barn full of neighbors, JCWA would love to see you there.
