Havasu Balloon Fest to Hold Night Glow and Movie Night for 2021

Usually, Lake Havasu kicks off the new year with a grand hot air balloon festival in January. Unfortunately, it took a global pandemic to sideline it this year. However, all is not lost. The gondola rides, air shows, and water demonstrations that helped define the festival in the past will not be taking place this year. But organizers wanted to do something for all of those that look forward to the festival each year. So, the Havasu Balloon Fest of 2021 has been amended to a night glow and family movie night.

• What: Havasu Balloon Fest 2021-ish
• Where: Sara Park Rodeo Grounds - Maps & Directions
• When: Saturday, January 16th, 6 pm night glow, 7 pm movie

One of my favorite parts of balloon festivals in the past has been the Night Glow. Luckily, organizers decided to keep that for the Havasu Balloon Fest 2021. Gates open at 4:45 pm to allow vehicles to find a place to park. The Night Glow begins at 6 pm. At 7 pm, a screening of the Disney animated movie "Up" starts on the giant outdoor screen. 

To stay within the CDC's guidelines for public health safety, all attendees must stay within or near their vehicles. You may bring food and beverages with you to enjoy while you watch the night glow and movie. Lawn chairs and blankets are also suggested for comfort. However, no fire pits, fireworks, portable BBQs, or propane heaters will be allowed on rodeo grounds. Restrooms will be made available.

No vendor row this year. It costs just $20 per vehicle to attend. Cash only will be accepted at the gate to gain entrance. Absolutely no credit cards or checks accepted. The night glow and movie may be canceled in the event of inclement weather. So, make sure you check the weather report before you head out on the 16th. At this time, there is no alternate date scheduled. Organizers expect to hold the 2022 Havasu Balloon Fest like they normally would in years past. Happy New Year!

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The 25th Annual Festival of Lights in Lake Havasu City

Thanks to Nathan Adler and Havasu Photos for the great shot! Find them online at: www.facebook.com/havasuphotos

2020 sequestered us in our houses for both school and work. So many great events were canceled this summer due to COVID-19 concerns. But, some things need to be experienced in person...like the Havasu Festival of Lights. Luckily, it has not been canceled. In fact, peopled wanted this to happen so badly that organizers started it early this year.

• What: Lake Havasu City Festival of Lights
• When: November 20th - January 4th until 10pm nightly
• Where: The English Village at the London Bridge - Maps & Directions
• Admission: FREE

Usually, we must wait until after Thanksgiving for the English Village to light up with over a half a million twinkling Christmas lights. Alas, this year, Christmas starts early. As of last weekend, city officials welcome residents and visitors to stroll through The English Village anytime between the time the sun sets until 10 pm any night of the week. After January 4th, the Festival of Lights shuts down until next year.

Admission to the Havasu Festival of Lights is absolutely free of charge. You can even park for free at either the London Bridge Resort and Convention Center or the English Village parking lot. While you're there, stop in for dinner at one of the village's restaurants. Then, peruse the London Bridge shops for a birthday, anniversary. Hanukkah, or Christmas present. The area is completely wheelchair accessible for our more physically challenged visitors. If you or any of your family members are staying at the London Bridge Resort throughout this holiday season, the English Village is located directly adjacent to the resort. This makes it incredibly convenient for guests to enjoy the Festival of Lights themselves.

You don't have to visit the English Village in order to enjoy what the Havasu Festival of Lights has to offer. A simple drive across the London Bridge gives you an eagle's eye view of the lights below. But one of my favorite ways to see the lights in all their glory is from the comfort of your own boat in Bridgewater Channel. The view from the water is truly a sight to behold. 

This year, we may have to celebrate the holidays a little differently than before. So, however you choose to do so, make sure you stay safe. Happy Thanksgiving. ~HavasuLew

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The Desert Hills Professional Fire Fighters Association SXS Poker Run

Halloween's behind us. Thanksgiving is still three weeks away. While other parts of the country feel the chill of autumn, Lake Havasu temperatures remain in the upper 80's/low 90's. Beautiful weather for doing some offroading, right? Well, if you need an excuse to roam the land around us, sign up for Desert Hills Side x Side Poker Run 2020.

• What: Desert Hills PFFA Side x Side Poker Run 2020
• Where: Start at Anderson Toyota (6510 Showplace) - Maps & Directions
• When: Saturday, November 7th, $100 per vehicle

Lake Havasu plays host to several poker runs on the water throughout the year. But if you don't feel like playing on the water, how about a poker run in the desert instead? The Desert Hills Professional Firefighters Association hosts their second annual Side x Side Poker Run this weekend, November 7th.

Participants need to show up at Anderson Toyota by The Shops of Lake Havasu at 7 am on Saturday, November 7th to begin their adventure. 

Once on their way, drivers follow along desert trails all the way up to Topock 66. Once there, everyone gets to enjoy a nice lunch break (provided as part of admission). Then, they make their way back to Lake Havasu City.

The Desert Hills PFFA Side x Side Poker Run only allows 150 vehicles to participate. Each vehicle is allowed up to two people. It costs $100 per vehicle to claim your spot in the poker run. Your cost of admission includes a poker hand, two meal tickets, and one commemorative T-shirt. If you want to increase your meal to all-you-can-eat tacos, it costs an additional $5 per person. And, if you want to increase your odds of winning the grand prize for best poker hand, pay just $10 for an extra hand to play.

Purchase tickets online at www.facebook.com/events/2699823756898541?active_tab=about. But you need to hurry. Spots are filling up fast.

Last year's Desert Hills PFFA Side x Side Poker Run raised money to replace outdated equipment. This year, they want to use all the money raised from the run to provide extra training for our local firefighters. A portion of the money raised also goes back into the community through donations to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.tunnel2towers.org), the Havasu Side x Side Trail Association (www.havasusxs.com), and Mile Markers (www.milemarkers.us).

Come join the fun as either a participant or a spectator this Saturday, November 7th at Anderson Toyota. 

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IJSBA World Finals in Lake Havasu City for 2020

There are two things we can count on here in Lake Havasu City: warm weather well into the fall and watersports. It is precisely BECAUSE of our warm weather that so many watersport competitions take place on our lake. The IJSBA 2020 World Finals is no exception. 

• What: IJSBA 2020 World Finals
• Where: Crazy Horse Campgrounds - Maps & Directions
• When: October 5th to 11th

Visit: www.ijsba.com for official news and information

The IJSBA 2020 World Finals plays out over seven days. That means one whole week of adrenaline-laden competition out on the water. For almost 40 years, IJSBA has been bringing athletes together from all over the world to compete for the title of the world's best. And we get to watch it for free!

One of the most anticipated events during the World Finals is the Big O Pro Freestyle Expo. This year, it takes place on October 10th under the London Bridge. If you want to see all of the acrobatic finesse of these athletes, come early with your lawn chairs and scout a spot on either side of the Bridgewater Channel. 

Visit vendor row any day of the event for great watersports-related merchandise. To quench the adult thirst, visit one of the many beer stands set up on the campgrounds. If you happen to be a beer connoisseur, pick up your tickets for the Craft Beer Festival. It takes place from October 9th to October 11th. To get tickets, just visit the VIP Craft Brew gates located next to the grandstands. Sample 12 different beers, including some from Havasu's own Mudshark and Hangar 24 breweries. These tickets also allow you VIP access to the starting line of the racecourse. Primo seats AND beer! How can you beat a combo like that?!

Remember, entry into the event all seven days of the event. However, you must pay for parking or entrance into the beer festival. If you're out on the water while the competition is underway, keep an eye out for signs marking the course. Have fun

Visit: www.ijsba.com for official news and information

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The Bunker Bar Set to Open the 2020-2021 Season October 2nd!

• What: Bunker Bar Opening Day
• Where: The Bunker Bar - 6942 Thirsty Lizard Rd, Lake Havasu City - Maps & Directions
• When: Opening Day October 2nd - 12-5pm
• Find them online: www.restaurantji.com/az/lake-havasu-city/bunker-bar-
• Follow Them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bunkerbarlhc

A new off-road destination bar just outside of Lake Havasu. Nikos Grill serving up delicious food. Live Music, games and plenty to drink. 

Open Friday 12-5 Saturday and Sunday 10-5 October through mid April

Main entry is dirt road access, but is maintained and accessible with most vehicles. 

Find them online: www.restaurantji.com/az/lake-havasu-city/bunker-bar-

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The UTV World Championship is in Lake Havasu City for 2020

Of course, Lake Havasu City is well known for its namesake lake. Every year, thousands of racers compete on our waters in events like the IJSBA World Finals and the Mark Hahn Memorial. Our Desert Storm Poker Runs bring ALL the boaters to the lake. But we're known for more than just water sports. After all, there must be a reason why vendors from all over the country come to our neck of the woods for the Sand, Water, and RV Expo every year, right? So, it should come as no surprise that the 2020 UTV World Championships chose Lake Havasu as its host city for their racers.

• What: 2020 UTV World Championships in Lake Havasu
• Where: Standard Wash Trail - Maps & Directions
• When: October 7th to October 11th
•  

For more information and schedule of events visit: utvworldchampionship.com

Kids. Teens. Adults. Everyone loves offroad races. And they ALL get to compete in them, too. This year's UTV World Championships begins with a 60-mile desert poker run on Wednesday, October 7th. The AZ West UTV Festival allows the public to interact with racers in between qualifying races on Thursday, October 8th. Racing starts off strong on Friday, the 8th, with 700/800, 900, 1000s, and Turbos hitting the short course at 7 am. Youth and Pro NA compete in runs for the rest of the day. 

On Saturday the 9th, it's the big leagues. The Desert Rally, Sportsman, and Pro RS1 racers show off their stuff beginning at 7 am. Youth 170 and 250 compete. But the 2020 UTV World Championships conclude with the Desert Pro Turbo races at 2 pm. Awards will be announced out on Sunday, October 10th. The ceremony will be live-streamed from 9 am to noon. Recipients receive their awards this year via mail.

Public Poker Run Registration

The poker run is open to the public. Simply visit utvworldchampionship.com/poker-run to register. But register soon. You'll be competing on October 7th. It'll be here before you know it!

Rules for Spectators

Never cross the racecourse at any time. It's hard for racers to see people. You run the risk of getting hit by one of the racers and causing serious harm to both of you. Camping is not allowed in the wash at any time during the four-day event. Pick up your trash and dispose of it in designated containers or take it with you when you leave. Keep track of kids and leashed pets to avoid injuries.

How to Watch the Races

Spectators can park in the General parking area for free (7001 AZ-95).  Walk from there up to the viewing area for the races. You may also watch from 50 feet away by driving up to the Standard Wash's boundary on the north, south, or east side. Just make sure you maintain a safe distance from the racecourse itself. Finally, park your vehicle and trailer in the parking lot and ride your own ATV up to one of the three spectators areas designated throughout the wash.

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Desert Bar Sets to Open for 2020-2021 Season

You know Summer is officially over in Lake Havasu when the The "Nellie E Saloon", better known as the DESERT BAR, opens for the first time of the year! 

The Desert Bar is opening as scheduled this Saturday & Sunday  October 3rd & 4th  @ Noon - Maps & Directions

There is no electricity, no AC and bring your loot because it's CASH only! The Desert Bar is something to experience, with great food and live bands every weekend throughout the cooler months, until April.

The "Nellie E Saloon" is located 5 miles off the Cienega Springs Rd exit on  Hwy-95, approximately 5 miles north of Parker, Arizona.

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4th of July Fireworks in Lake Havasu

With so much craziness going on in the world today, it's nice to be able to rely on certain things. The lake always provides hours of fun at any time of the year. Lake Havasu City spends most of its summer hours in triple-digit temperatures. That's when the lake looks especially inviting. And the July 4th fireworks show lights up the Havasu skies every year. This year is no exception.

• What: July 4th Fireworks Show
• Where: Above Lake Havasu
• When: Saturday, July 4th, 9 pm
• Admission: FREE

This year, the 4th of July falls on a Saturday. We'll most likely see an increase in traffic on the lake in the days leading up to it. We should see an increase in police presence out on the lake as a result. So, keep safety laws in mind while operating your boat, jet ski, etc. out on the lake. Remember, no drinking while operating a vehicle out on the water. You will receive a fine (at the least) and possible jail time. It's not worth it. And always keep your eyes out for people actually IN the water while coasting around the lake. They can be hard to see, especially if you're not paying attention.

The fireworks show begins just after sunset (around 9 pm). The best places to view the July 4th fireworks show are from:

* Rotary Park

* Nautical Beachfront Resort

* London Bridge Beach

* Thompson Bay

CLICK HERE to enlarge

CLICK HERE to enlarge

Rotary Beach fills up quickly. I recommend you get there early. Keep social distancing in mind when setting up your "spot". They allow you to bring coolers. But leave alcohol and pets at home. Head over to the island. Nautical Resort offers plenty of free parking. However, they don't allow coolers, outside alcohol, or pets at their facility. London Bridge Beach, on the other hand, DOES allow coolers. They also have free parking. But, if you don't want to leave the water, watch the show from your boat in Thompson Bay. Just drop anchor early because it tends to get packed in there, too. Make sure you anchor the bow AND the stern. The area oftentimes experiences a strong wind and current during this time. 

Tune your radio to KNTR 980 on your AM dial at 9 pm to enjoy the full effect of this pyrotechnics display.

They simulcast music specifically set to correlate with the fireworks show. It's a blast in more ways than one. Finally, please consider leaving your pets at home for their comfort and yours. Loud noises, bright lights, and big crowds are enough to rattle even the calmest of pets. Let them enjoy their night in peace...in the comfort of their own home.

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Bluegrass on the Beach Music Festival back at Windsor Beach for the 18th Year

For almost 20 years now, the first weekend in March has been reserved for music on the shores of Lake Havasu. That's when Bluegrass on the Beach comes to town. With its American beginnings in the Appalachian mountain region, Bluegrass pulls from its originators' European roots (Scotland, England, and Ireland). They threw in a little African-American jazz and blues as well, bringing a unique genre to the musical arena. This weekend, anyone who loves Bluegrass needs to hit the beach.

• What: Bluegrass on the Beach in Lake Havasu
• Where: Lake Havasu State Park Site #4 (699 London Bridge Rd) - Maps & Directions
• When: March 6th, 7th & 8th
• Admission: $20/adult Fri & Sun, $25/adult Sat, $10/teen each day, free/kids 12 & under

American music deserves an American start. So, it should surprise no one that this three-day event begins with the National Anthem at 9:30 am on Friday, March 6th. After a formal welcome to all gathered there, the first band of the festival (Flint Hill Special) performs. Throughout the weekend, you'll hear amazing Bluegrass performances from the likes of The Dave Adkins Band, Mark Phillips and IIIrd Generation, Russell Moore & IIIrd Time Out, and The Kody Norris Show. In between their sets, listen to other fantastic performers. Do you play Bluegrass music for fun? Bring along your instrument and join in on one of the many jam sessions planned off-stage. Don't be shy. It's all for fun!

Organizers encourage guests to bring their own chairs. You'll be allowed to set up your chairs in any available space on the very first day and leave them for the duration of the festival. Just make sure to grab them before you go on your last day there. Coolers must be left in your campsite or vehicle. None will be allowed on festival grounds. But, don't worry. There will be food and drink vendors available on-site. So, you'll never be hungry or thirsty. The festival area is also a no pet/no smoking area. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Tickets for the Bluegrass festival cost $20 per adult for Friday and Sunday. Saturday, the biggest day of the festival, costs $25 per adult. Teens (ages 13 to 18) get in for just $10 per day. And kids under 13 get in for free with a paid adult. Plan on coming back for more than one day? Hook yourself up with a three-day pass for $100. This includes a dry camping spot located at the Windsor Beach Lot #4.

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Havasu Deuces Car Show on the Rotary Park Baseball Field

In the sixties, the Beach Boys sang about how their little deuce coupe purrs like a kitten. With a competition clutch and four on the floor, she leaves those Thunderbirds behind like they're standing still. For some car owners, nothing beats the classic style of a 1932 Ford Coupe. Owners of this American-made beauty converge upon Rotary Park this weekend for the Havasu Dueces Car Show 2020. 

• What: Havasu Dueces Car Show 2020
• Where: Rotary Park Ball Fields - Maps & Directions
• When: March 5th to 7th
• Admission: Free for spectators

Who wins this show? Everyone who goes because they get to see these gorgeous vehicles up close and personal. This three-day event starts off with Deuce Night on Thursday, March 5th. All vehicles registered for Saturday's official show and shine park along McCulloch Blvd between 2 pm and 8 pm. McCulloch shuts down to regular traffic an hour before the line-up. Spectators can park anywhere available on Mesquite and Swanson. Stop by one of the bars or restaurants located on McCulloch for refreshments. 

The main event takes place at the Rotary Park Ball Fields on Saturday, March 7th. Starting at 8 am, come see all of the Deuces competing for Best in Show. The organizers understand that other manufacturers created some other phenomenal vehicles after 1932. So, they set up a special section for classic cars built in 1957 and before. These cars compete for their own Best in Show awards. Winners will be announced at the end of the show (3 pm). 

You can't have a classic car show without some classic music. Food and beer vendors keep you fed and quench your thirst. Proceeds from the show benefit the high school's athletic program. No outside food or drink allowed. And please leave your pets at home. Rotary Park doesn't allow dogs anyway. 

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