Love Your Lake Day & Boat Parade

The event called Love Your Lake Day & Antique Boat Parade is a vibrant celebration that embodies the community’s deep appreciation for Lake Sunapee in Sunapee, New Hampshire. Locals and repeat attendees often simply refer to it as Love Your Lake Day, a testament to the event’s warm and inclusive spirit.

This event is designed for families, boating enthusiasts, and anyone who cherishes the natural beauty of Lake Sunapee. The target audience includes families with children, who will be delighted by the face painting, games, and crafts specially organized for them. Boaters and lake enthusiasts will marvel at the antique boats on display and the picturesque parade route. The live animal presentation by The Squam Lake Science Center adds an educational and engaging element, making it a perfect outing for families and nature lovers alike.

The 2025 edition of Love Your Lake Day & Antique Boat Parade is scheduled for Sunday, August 10, from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM. The morning is filled with exciting exhibits, face painting, games, and crafts for kids at the LSPA Center for Lake Studies, located at 63 Main Street in Sunapee. The highlight of the day is the Antique Boat Parade, which begins approximately at 1:00 PM. The parade route starts in Gardner Bay, proceeds south past Dewey Beach, enters Sunapee Harbor, and then travels along the shoreline toward Birch Point, passing Fishers Bay and Oakledge, the State Beach, before ending in Newbury Harbor.

The event takes place in the heart of Sunapee, New Hampshire, with the main activities centered around Sunapee Harbor and the LSPA Center for Lake Studies. For those traveling by air, the nearest airport is the Lebanon Municipal Airport, though larger international airports like Manchester-Boston Regional Airport are also accessible with a bit of a drive. The venue is easily reachable via highways, and for those arriving by boat, Sunapee Harbor offers convenient docking options. The setting is bathed in natural beauty, with Lake Sunapee’s pristine waters and surrounding landscapes providing a stunning backdrop to the festivities.

Attendees should not miss this event for its unique blend of community spirit, educational activities, and stunning natural scenery. The day begins with a lively atmosphere at the LSPA Center for Lake Studies, where families can enjoy exhibits, face painting, and interactive games. The live animal presentation adds a fascinating element, allowing children and adults alike to learn about and appreciate the local wildlife. As the morning transitions into the afternoon, the Antique Boat Parade becomes the main attraction, showcasing beautifully restored vintage boats gliding across the lake’s surface.

The parade itself is a visual feast, with the antique boats gliding past iconic points like Dewey Beach, Fishers Bay, and Oakledge State Beach. The route’s scenic beauty, combined with the historical charm of the boats, creates an unforgettable experience. Throughout the day, local vendors and organizations contribute to the celebratory mood, offering a variety of activities and exhibits that highlight the importance of preserving and appreciating Lake Sunapee.

In essence, Love Your Lake Day & Antique Boat Parade is more than just an event; it is a community’s heartfelt tribute to the natural treasure that brings them together. With its rich mix of family-friendly activities, educational presentations, and the majesty of the antique boat parade, this celebration is a must-attend for anyone who loves lakes, boats, and the beauty of New Hampshire’s countryside.