SMETHPORT – Arts on the Island returns to Hamlin Lake Park for its eighth year on Sept. 6 to 7. Hosted by the McKean County Historical Society, the event is two days of art, live music, food and family fun. This year, organizers hope to make a splash with the newly added cardboard boat race.

The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each day will feature artisans and crafters, live music and plenty of food vendors. Horse and pony rides will be available Saturday.

The new cardboard boat race is expected to spark plenty of creativity. Participants, who can be individuals or teams, will build boats made entirely out of cardboard and race them across the shortest stretch of Hamlin Lake, from the island to Willow Street.

“To help stick them together and keep the water out of them, people can also use duct tape, paint, and sealants like spray foam and Flex Seal,” said Steve Tarbox, organizer.

Because this is the first year for the boat race, there will be no entry fee.

“We decided not to charge an entry fee this year but if it really takes off we might have one next year, and that money could be used to support Arts on the Island,” said Tarbox.

Participants must be at least 12 years old, with minors accompanied by adults.

“People in the boats will need to wear a life jacket for safety but it isn’t too deep in that part of the lake where the race is being held,” said Tarbox.

The boat race is not only about construction, but also a celebration of creativity.

“We want to lean into the artistic part of Arts on the Island,” Tarbox said. “People can decorate with whatever they want, just so long as the functional part of the boat is made out of cardboard.”

Awards will be given for most creative vessel, as well as first, second and third place in the race itself. Judges have yet to be determined.

“We will have someone to judge how creative the boats are, and then someone to judge the race,” said Tarbox. “We will also have someone in the water in a kayak or canoe to monitor in case anything goes wrong.”

For those unsure where to start, Tarbox has boat starter kits available for $35.

“They are cremation boxes so they are the perfect size for someone to sit down inside,” said Tarbox. “That way, people can get a large part of the construction out of the way.”

Anyone who would like to learn more about the boat race or obtain a kit can contact Tarbox at stevetarbox76@gmail.com.

The historical society also has leftover cardboard from the museum’s recent repairs, according to Bart Barton of the society. Anyone who would like some can contact the museum at (814) 887-5142.

Sunday brings the return of the ever popular car show. The show is traditionally one of the most popular parts of the festival. Last year, there were around 180 entries.

“Hopefully, we get that good weather they are promising and we can top 200 this year,” Barton said. Vehicles will be divided into many classes, including cars, high-performance vehicles over 300 horsepower, Jeeps, motorcycles, fire trucks and even tractors.

“The variety of vehicles adds to the fun,” said Barton.

Organizers say the event continues to grow each year and draws visitors from across the region. It has become a beloved annual tradition.

“This isn’t just a Smethport thing; we are getting people drawn here from all over,” said Barton. “Each year we just keep getting bigger and better.”