The Chautauqua-Wawasee summer season kicks-off with a two-day programming extravaganza. The Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Experience  will feature the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Harrison String Quintet on Friday, May 31, and the “Hope Floats” Cardboard Boat Regatta is on Saturday, June 1.

The Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Experience will be held at the new Oakwood Resort 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 31. Experience wine samplings, delectable chocolates and artisan cheeses from Chalet Party Shop, Belmont Beverage, DeBrand Chocolates, Swissland Cheese and more. Experience scrumptious appetizers prepared by Chef Matt Hawkey with Grill N Grate BBQ.

In addition, the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Harrison String Quintet will take the audience from Bach to rock as they play the music of Bach, The Beatles, Dave Brubeck, Mozart and more. This exquisite evening will also be the “launch” to Saturday’s Cardboard Boat Regatta. Limited tickets are available and must be purchased in advance.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 1, the shores of Lake Wawasee at Oakwood Beach will offer a unique site as cardboard boats race during the “Hope Floats” Cardboard Boat Regatta. Cardboard boat entries can be submitted by individuals, businesses, churches, social groups, etc. Entries receive two complementary tickets to Wine, Cheese & Chocolate experience on Friday evening.

These are life-size cardboard boats that will consist of a one to three person crew. Admission is free for spectators and fans, just bring a lawn chair or blanket and prepare to be entertained. Food, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Boat entries are $25.

Tickets for the Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Experience and boat entry forms are now available at Grill N Grate BBQ, 1009 South Huntington Street, Syracuse; Syracuse Community Center, 1013 North Long Drive, Syracuse; and online at www.chautauqua-wawasee.org.

Chautauqua-Wawasee provides quality programming utilizing the four pillars of the Chautauqua Institution: Arts, Education, Religion and Recreation. For more information on these or any of their programs, visit the website or call Marlies at 574-518-1094.