SHREVEPORT, La. — In just a few days, Cross Lake will once again become one of the area's biggest gathering spots as the annual Cross Lake Floatilla returns Saturday for a day of boating, entertainment and charitable giving.
Organizers are expecting favorable weather and a large turnout on the water and along the shoreline at the El Karubah Shrine Center, 6230 S. Lakeshore Dr., which is hosting the event for the second consecutive year.
"We're hoping the weather is exactly like it is right now," said Eric Sullivan, a spokesman for the Cross Lake Floatilla board. "As far as you can see, boats will be anchored out there, people partying and having a good time on the water. Out here on the land, we'll have a band playing, and we'll have fireworks after dark. It's going to be an all-afternoon blast."
Cross Lake Floatilla
The event continues its partnership with the El Karubah Shrine Center and the Shriners organization, while also serving as a fundraiser for local charitable causes.
"A big part of it is the benefit to El Karubah," Sullivan said. "But the Floatilla is a bigger thing than even that. We have the Shriners Children's Clinic here in town, and we support that. There are other local charities, too. Last year, this organization gave more than $20,000 to local charities, and we expect to do that and more again this year."
While the Floatilla is known for its festive atmosphere on the water, organizers emphasize that it remains a family-friendly event.
Musical guests at the Cross Lake Floatilla.Â
"The party factor certainly does exist, but it is a family-friendly thing," Sullivan said. "People will have their kids on their boats. People have dogs on their boats. On land, with all the shade out here, it's going to be a great place to spend the day."
Gates will open for parking at 10 a.m. Saturday. The Posting of the Colors is scheduled for 3 p.m., a boat parade will happen around 4 p.m., and a fireworks show will take place after dark.
Schedule of events at the Cross Lake Floatilla
Parking costs $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for those bringing boat trailers. If you need more information, you can email the organizers: crosslakefloatilla@gmail.com.
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