Lake fest features entertainment, illuminations

Every third weekend in July, the union community of Schönenberg-Kübelberg celebrates its romantic lake fest at Ohmbachsee. Today through Sunday, the lake turns into a big natural stage with lights, music and shows. Mostly regional bands and dance groups entertain visitors on three stages put up around Ohmbachsee.

***image1***The fest officially opens at 8 p.m. today in the wine village with gun salutes and the mayor welcoming visitors. The bands Oku and the Reggae Rockers, Undercover, Mayque, Brass Machine, Budapester Ragtime Band and Fracksause play until 1:30 a.m. Saturday.

Performing bands Saturday night are The Beat Brothers, 7ty Proof and the Music Association Griess from the Alsace, France, with a dance group.

Highlight of the evening is at 10:30 p.m., when the lake will be set on flames with lights and a fireworks display. Then music continues with Boppin’ B., Stars Melody and the second part by 7ty Proof.

Sunday activities start with a lake fest worship service 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the middle stage on the side of Schönenberg-Kübelberg.

***image2***Regional music associations present German folk music in the afternoon. Children’s activities feature a magician, clown, games, jumping castle, face painting and an Indians’ fest. A water ski show is presented on the lake.

Another highlight is a giant fireworks display above the lake 10:30 to 11 p.m. Performers prior to the fireworks display are Italian singer Giovanni Contrino, Miracle Drug covering songs by Irish band U2, Snails House and the Schnapka Connection. Musical entertainment closes the romantic lake fest around midnight.

Stands and booths offer Palatinate and international food specialties.

The daily admission ticket is €4. Children under 14 are admitted free.

Omhbach lake is northwest of Bruchmühlbach-Miesau, between Elschbach and Schönenberg-Kübelberg. With a surface of 15 hectares, it’s the biggest lake in the Westpfalz area. There is a campground and the possibility to fish, sail, surf and rent little boats. For more information, visit www.seefest.de.