Hobart’s Summer Market on the Lake returned Thursday nights to Festival Park, running from June 12 through August 28, offering a lively mix of local vendors, live music, family fun, and beautiful lakeside ambiance.
Held every Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., the market features an eclectic array of baked goods, ethnic and gourmet foods, handmade crafts, jewelry and fresh produce. The city-operated beer garden adds a relaxed touch to the atmosphere. Live music begins at 6 p.m. in the downtown bandshell, and most evenings wrap with a movie under the stars, creating a festive yet family-friendly vibe.
Julie Mandon, park director for the City of Hobart Parks and Recreation Department, oversees the event’s planning and growth.
“We have ponies, we’re trying to add a rescue, then we have our bounce houses. We’re also going to have foam parties coming up,” Mandon said. “You just stay ahead of the game with the trends of keeping stuff for kids so everybody has something to do. We hear feedback, some people are asking for a vegan vendor. We try to take in all the feedback we can and make something for everybody.”
Mandon said the market combines several typical summer events into one seamless experience.
“The whole community knows that on Thursdays, the place to be is Hobart—they can get their dinner on Thursdays and enjoy music all in one night to kick off the weekend,” Mandon said.
A highlight for many is the pet‑friendly policy. Dogs are a common sight, and families can enjoy pony rides, petting goats, and other interactive animal features alongside the shopping. Debbie Burgess, owner of Bub Spuds, has been a weekly vendor since 2016. She noted that Hobart stands out for its warmth toward local vendors.
“We always feel really welcome here at Hobart,” Burgess said. “It seems like it’s become a family tradition for a lot of families to be right on the lake.”
Vendor diversity continues to grow, with artisans, farmers and food producers—meat, vegan, fruits and more—applying through a juried process to ensure a unique mix each week.
Longtime attendee Julie Kalafut, who moved to Hobart eight years ago, praised the market’s inclusive atmosphere.
“The music, the food, the kids running around, the animals that are allowed to come – you don’t have to travel, and it’s all right here by the lake,” Kalafut said.
Kalafut said the gathering fosters community unity.
“You can see people getting along, people of all ages, to enjoy a nice night out in the neighborhood,” Kalafut said.
She also applauded the event’s organization and safety measures.
“There’s usually no issues, no parking issues, no bathroom issues, and the police presence is a big thing. I’ve never had an issue here in eight years,” Kalafut said.
As the sun sets over Lake George and the Revelli Bandshell fills with music, Festival Park buzzes with the lively spirit of summer. From artisan stalls to pony rides, live entertainment to lakeside views, the Summer Market on the Lake has become Hobart’s premier weekly gathering spot. It brings together friends, families and neighbors – dogs in tow – for an evening of community, commerce and celebration.
The Summer Market on the Lake has quickly become Hobart’s summer gathering spot, weaving together commerce, community and entertainment into one unforgettable lakeside evening.
For the latest event updates, vendor applications, and more, visit the City of Hobart Parks and Recreation Department. Don't miss out on this summer tradition.
