Back to the Water Fest: Hobart's park fun with a green twist

A Long-Awaited Return

The crisp morning air at Robinson Lake Park signaled more than just the start of spring—it marked the triumphant return of Hobart’s Water Fest, an annual tradition that had been absent since 2020. The pandemic forced a temporary halt, but this year, the city aimed to reignite the spark that once made this event a cornerstone of family outings and environmental education.

Families gathered with one goal in mind: to reconnect with nature while learning how to protect it.

A Blend of Fun and Learning

The festival transformed into a dynamic hub of activity, where education met entertainment in the most natural way. Booths lined the park, each hosted by dedicated groups like the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and local environmental organizations. Parents mingled with experts discussing green initiatives, while kids dove into hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity.

Freebies—backpacks, wildflower seeds, and informational pamphlets—were handed out, ensuring no one left empty-handed. For some, like Darlene Montez, the takeaway was smaller than expected. She had hoped for a sapling to plant for her grandson, but a handful of seeds would have to suffice—a modest yet meaningful victory in her gardening plans.

Others, like Robin Toneff and her family, seized the day as a teaching moment. Her youngest absorbed lessons on recycling and ecosystem care, planting the seeds of environmental stewardship early.

Teenagers Steal the Spotlight

While parents engaged in discussions and kids explored interactive exhibits, two teenagers—Vincent Ludington and Terah Underhill—chose a different adventure.

Ditching the booths entirely, they waded into Robinson Lake’s clear waters, boots caked in mud, nets swinging as they hunted for tadpoles and crayfish. Ludington, a Chicago native, had found an unexpected favorite in Hobart’s quiet trails and pristine lake.

“It’s not crowded,” he remarked, a testament to the park’s understated charm.

His words echoed the festival’s broader appeal: a place where nature’s simplicity outweighed the chaos of crowded attractions.

Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes

Every successful event has its backstage crew, and Hobart’s Water Fest was no exception. Russel Brodhacker, one of the organizers, laughed about this year being a “work in progress.” The city had big plans for next year—bigger booths, more activities, and perhaps even saplings up for grabs.

But the real stars keeping the park alive year-round were volunteers like Bob Allen, who spent weekends stocking fish, planting trees, and repairing playgrounds. Their tireless efforts ensured that places like Robinson Lake remained a haven for families, not just today, but for seasons to come.

More Than Just a Festival

From scavenger hunts that sent kids darting through the park to fishing ponds with small prizes, the event packed in fun with purpose. Whether it was a child’s first lesson on local wildlife or a family’s first spring outing in years, the festival proved that a little planning—and a willingness to pause and restart—could bring a community closer together.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, one thing was clear: Hobart’s Water Fest wasn’t just back—it was better.