Lake Raponda comes to life Saturday
A band performs during “Moosestock” in 2020.
WILMINGTON - For the seventh year in a row, Lake Raponda will be filled on a Saturday evening in August with music, boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and other floaty things. On Saturday, August 20, at 7 pm, songs ranging from standards to oldies to blues to country, to jazz, including some unusual renditions, will be performed toward the water from the dock at 220 Lake Raponda Road.
Moosestock is the brain child of Holly and Joe Fortner, a vocal-guitar duo who perform under the name of Blind Date. In 2016 they decided on a whim that they would set up on and play an evening of music from their dock to anyone who might happen to be on the lake. They dubbed the event “Moosestock” in honor of the Vermont location and the floaty mooses. Since then Moosestock has grown to an event, with last year’s concert attended by over 50 different watercraft, folks on their docks, and many on the lawn behind the dock. Holly, vocals and keyboards, and Joe, guitar and mandolin, have been joined by singers Eithne Eldred and Evon Mack - who, with Holly, are known as the Rapondettes - and by ukulele and bass player Mike Eldred. Other guest musicians are expected this year as well.
Moosestock has always been an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of a Lake Raponda sunset while listening to an eclectic mix of musical styles. At nightfall many attendees add their own lights, including glow sticks, Christmas tree lights, and more to the event and free glow sticks will be available at the dock.
Moosestock VII is open to all. Many consider the “water seating” to be a unique experience. Those who do attend on water are asked to use the state boat launch at the north end of the lake and to follow the signs regarding cleaning boats of invasives. A flashlight or headlamp will help boaters get back to the launch point after the concert. Those preferring to stay on land will find space on the lawn behind the stage so bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the music from shore.
More details can be found at https://www.facebook.com/BlindDateMusic.
