August 20, 2003


Lake Chicot State Park Sets "Gospel Fest" for Sept. 27

By Jim Taylor, travel writer
Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

LAKE VILLAGE -- Located on the shore of a former main channel of the Mississippi River that is now Arkansas's largest natural lake, Lake Chicot State Park has long been known as a Delta hotspot for anglers and birdwatchers. For the past seven years, though, one of the park's special events has also been steadily building a reputation among lovers of gospel music.

The eighth annual Gospel Fest to be held on Saturday, Sept. 27, will continue that tradition with live performances by numerous gospel choirs. Arkansas groups are expected from North Little Rock, Little Rock, Lonoke, Pine Bluff, El Dorado and Lake Village. Mississippi is also expected to be represented.

In addition to the music, Gospel Fest provides a variety of activities for families. Scheduled events include a car show, a walk-a-thon, arts and crafts booths, 3-on-3 basketball and horseshoe tournaments, and other games for all ages.

"We want families to come, be together and have a good time," Park Supt. Ocie Hunter said. "So we try to have something for all age groups to enjoy. And we showcase some truly awesome gospel music."

The music will begin at 10 a.m. and continue to 6 p.m. and attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs. Admission and parking are free, but there is a minimal charge for some games. Food vendors will be on hand.

The "quilting corner" has become a Gospel Fest tradition, Hunter said. Children are invited to draw designs on cloth squares that are then assembled into a handmade quilt representing that year's event.

On Friday, Sept. 26, the park will host a series of workshops from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on such topics as "The Pressures of Life: Young and Old" and "Down in the Delta: Old Sayings of the Church." Registration for the workshops is $25 per person, which includes a continental breakfast at 8 a.m. and lunch.

Lake Chicot State Park is located near Arkansas's southeast corner about eight miles northeast of Lake Village off Ark. 144. The park has 127 tent and RV campsites and 14 cabin units (seven duplexes). For more information on the gospel event, the workshops and the park, phone (870) 265-5480. For cabin reservations, phone 1-800-264-2430.

For information on Lake Village accommodations and restaurants, phone the Lake Village Chamber of Commerce at (870) 265-5997.

 

Submitted by the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
One Capitol Mall, Little Rock, AR 72201, (501) 682-7606
E-mail: info@arkansas.com

May be used without permission. Credit line is appreciated:
"Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism"

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