Warren County, PA — Hundreds of people turned out to Kinzua Beach Saturday, August 30th for the first-ever Kinzua Rocks the Wake festival, a free, three-day Labor Day weekend celebration along the Allegheny Reservoir.
 
The event is a joint collaboration between the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau and the Warren County Visitors Bureau, with support from a state grant. Organizers say the goal was to create a holiday weekend experience that welcomes both residents and visitors.
 
"We are so excited and happy to be able to welcome so many to the area for the event," stated Casey Ferry, Kinzua Rocks the Wake Volunteer. "It makes my heart so happy to see everyone here - it makes all the work worthwhile."

"We hoped for a lot of visitors but never would have predicted a turn out like this," added Rustin Lippincott, Executive Director of the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. "The best part is that we have two more days of festivities lined up - so if anyone missed it today, be sure to come out on Sunday and Monday too."
 
Festivities include live music, professional water stunt shows, food trucks, wineries, breweries, magic shows, and family activities. Representatives from PA 250 are also on site to promote the upcoming 250th anniversary of Pennsylvania’s founding.
 
“We have the mobile unit here on site with photo opportunities, games and a prize wheel," stated Joe McClellan, Warren County Representative for America 250 PA. "We are here to get everyone engaged in our state-wide mission to celebrate America's 250th birthday." 
 
Families and visitors alike enjoyed the activities. Children described the event as “fun and exciting,” while James and Jan Schumacher, who traveled from Pittsburgh, said they came to the area specifically to join in the holiday celebrations.

"We have a camp nearby and wanted to come up for the weekend to see everything," explained James Schumacher, Pittsburgh resident. "It is such a beautiful, fantastic day. It's so nice to be here for their first annual event."
"Yes," agreed James's wife Jan. "I really hope they will do this every year." 
 
The festival continues through Monday, September 1st, with more live music, vendors, and family fun scheduled at Kinzua Beach in the Allegheny National Forest.
 
For more information about Kinzua Rocks the Wake and a full list and schedule of activities, visit here.