ISLAND FALLS, Maine — The community of Island Falls capped 10 fun-filled days of events with a large parade through its downtown Sunday.
Because of COVID-19, most of the traditional events were canceled last year, including the parade, so officials had hoped for a large turnout this year. And that is precisely what happened as most of the events held throughout the 10 days featured strong public participation.
“Overall, most events had good attendance this year,” explained Ruth Frazier, Island Falls recreation director. “The parade was not huge, as far as the number of floats, but it was good for people to be able to be out and about.”
Other popular attractions included a car show and barbecue at G.R. Porter’s and Sons, antique tractor pulls, a lobster and steak dinner, a canoe/kayak race on Birch Point, a boat parade on Pleasant Lake, a pet show, tours of the newly reopened Island Falls Opera House and a fireworks display.
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — This antique carriage owned by Bowers Funeral Home of Island Falls was one of many entries in the town’s annual Summerfest parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — This float featuring June Bernard (left) and Shelby Phelps placed third in the Island Falls Summerfest parade for their colorful float. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — Dave Rairdon of the Anah Indy Cars rides in the Island Falls Summerfest Parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — A collection of musicians provided entertainment during Sunday’s Island Falls Summerfest Parade. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — The float of Aroostook Catering featured a number of children keeping people cool with water guns during the Island Falls Summerfest Parade. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — The float of Little Steps, Big Dreams, a daycare run by Misty Violette, took home first-place honors during the Island Falls Summerfest parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
ISLAND FALLS, Maine — August 8, 2021 — Patty Butler and Bill Frehil, along with granddaughters Kendlyn and Ashlyn York, wave to the crowd during Sunday’s Island Falls Summerfest parade. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)
