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Codorus Blast: Don't miss these 5 activities in 2015


This year's Codorus Blast is filled with activities that will tempt visitors who keep coming back, as well as those who need a nudge to see what the state park has to offer.

Organized by volunteer group The Friends of Codorus Park, the weekend-long blast is one of many events that helps raise money that goes directly into the park and to other charities, said Dwight Resh, president of the group.

Over the years, the money raised has helped pay for a new deck on the classroom building, a floating dock in the sailboat area, about 30 picnic tables, new floors in the marina building, a sound system in the band shell and a wood shed at the entrance of the campground for firewood.

"We try to keep the park a place that serves the community," Resh said.

With a goal to raise $30,000 this year, Resh said, Codorus Blast is expected to bring back favorite activities and musicians.

So pack up your sunscreen and try to arrive early. These must-see events run from June 19-21.

Related: Codorus State Park's eagles among many attractions

1. Kick back at Keystone Dock Dogs

While Codorus Blast won't kick off until June 20, the Keystone Dock Dogs start competing on Lake Marburg on June 15. The public is encouraged to come out early and even enter their own dogs in the fun.

During the Codorus Blast, the dogs will compete in various activities starting as early as 10 a.m. June 20 and lasting until the big air finale at 3:30 p.m. June 21. The group welcomes pet owners of any breed who enjoy doing constructive activities with their animals.

Watch these dogs jump over the docks to catch various objects before splashing into the water.

From the big wave to speed retrieve activities, these events always attract a crowd.

2. Vote for the best photo

The annual photo contest is a great way to see the creative work of local photographers.

Categories include birds, bugs, wildlife, four seasons, flora, fun in the park, water, sky and black and white. Each photo is meant to highlight the great opportunities in the park.

Stop by the Friends of the Codorus booth to vote for your favorite photo. Winners will be announced at 5 p.m. June 21.

3. Check out the kid-friendly shows

There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages during Codorus Blast, but perhaps the most popular will be the Ray Owens Show on June 20. The "Hats off to Codorus Park Show" kicks off at 11 a.m. on the small stage, leading into "Animal Odyssey" at 11:45 a.m.

Ray Owens' animal show includes musical adventures with sea creatures and farm animals. It even includes great farm animal impersonation competition during the Chicken Karaoke contest.

4. Get on the water

Kayaks and pontoon rides are the best way to get on the water during Codorus Blast.

Pontoon rides are available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 20 and from noon to 5 p.m. June 21, while the kayaks will be available noon to 6 p.m. June 20 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 21.

Kayakers can paddle in the main launch cove of Lake Marburg for about 30 minutes with experienced paddlers and guides to help along the way. Children can join in by paddling their own kayak or getting into a two-person kayak with a parent.

5. Watch fireworks at night

The main attraction is the June 20 fireworks over Lake Marburg.

Starting at 9:30 p.m., the fireworks showcase a beautiful light display that can be enjoyed by all visitors to the park. The fireworks have become one of the best attended activities during the three-day event.

Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and relax on the shorelines while you watch the burst of colors overhead.

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