Sharon's WaterFire sets July and September dates for 2025 season

WaterFire Sharon organizers have announced two dates for its 2025 season of events in downtown Sharon: July 26 and Sept. 20.

The July 26 event is themed "Ignite the Night," and the Sept. 20 event is "Harvest Moon." Both Saturdays will feature an artisan market, a musical lineup, a children's area, and a food court starting at 2 p.m., with entertainment on the Shenango River beginning at dusk.

During the event, more than 50 braziers are anchored in the Shenango River, filled with cedar and pine, and are lit at nightfall. Pre-recorded music and live musicians performing from WaterFire Sharon boats accompany the display.

The events are free to attend and are designed for families and pets.

WaterFire Sharon is seeking new members for its River Operations team, including boat captains. Individuals who prioritize safety, have available time, and are interested in learning to operate a boat on the Shenango River are encouraged to apply. Training with experienced WaterFire boat captains will begin this spring and require a minimum of 10 hours.

"For those familiar with boating, conditions on an open lake are not the same as a river," said Chip Mastrian, co-chair of WaterFire Sharon. "Anyone navigating a river, especially a shallow one, has to understand not only those conditions, but where the deep areas are, where sandbars are, and maneuvering around braziers in this case."

Mastrian added that involvement with WaterFire River Operations offers an opportunity for retired boat enthusiasts, individuals with firefighting or patrol experience, or those focused on water safety to contribute their knowledge.

More than 200 volunteers are needed to conduct one WaterFire event. Duties range from assisting with children's activities and parking to setting up and cleaning up the food court. Detailed descriptions of volunteer needs and sign-up information are available at www.waterfiresharonpa.org under the volunteer tab.

"It is flexible in hours served and the type of help you want to lend," said Karen Winner Sed, co-chair. "New friendships are formed every season at WaterFire, simply by coming down, lending a hand, and meeting new people."

WaterFire Sharon has hosted art installation-themed events in downtown Sharon since 2013. The events have drawn tens of thousands of attendees to their 15 festivals to date.

Those interested in learning more about joining WaterFire Sharon as a boat captain or volunteer can contact Karen Anderson at kanderson@waterfiresharonpa.org or 724-456-0996.