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

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.

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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.

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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.