By Sharon Turano
Onoville Marina Park is “a hidden gem” in the Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County, where Onofest will be celebrated from 2-9:30pm Saturday, July 23, rain or shine. Cattaraugus County Director of Economic Development, Planning and Tourism Crystal Abers described the festival and park where it is held.
“Onofest is an annual event for visitors to enjoy the park”, she said. “There will be bands, arts and craft vendors, food trucks and fireworks at the event, which will cost patrons $10 per car, so bring a huge bunch of your family and friends to enjoy the event.”
“Bands include Nightshift from 5-7pm and the Hootz from 7:30-9:30pm. Fireworks follow the performances.”
Mrs. Abers said Onofest began in 2008 for Cattaraugus County’s Bicentennial, as a way to make people aware of the Onoville Marina Park. The park is located at 704 West Perimeter Road in Steamburg, NY. It boasts 91 miles of non-commercial shoreline and is the largest inland water marina in the state. “The park has 400 dock slips and 75 campsites, where visitors can enjoy the park’s natural beauty throughout the season”, said Mrs. Abers. She said season and transient sites are available at the marina park.
“A lot of people are not aware of what it is,” said Mrs. Abers. She said if one loves natural beauty, they should bring a chair, pack a bag and “enjoy the sun and sounds” offered at Onofest.
There is limited picnic table space as well as limited bench seats. These fill up fast so it’s best to consider bringing your own lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas, bug spray and of course don’t forget the sun screen!!
According to the county’s website, the marina is located on 12,000 acres on the Allegheny Reservoir, just north of the Allegheny National Forest, where visitors may be able to catch eagle or osprey sightings.
Mrs. Abers stated, “Cattaraugus County’s Economic Development, Planning and Tourism staff are looking into grants to upgrade the park and dock”. Department staff are also working on getting high-speed internet into the park for its patrons. Those who would like to rent dock space or camp can register online at onoville.com or call 716-354-2615.