The Pride of the Susquehanna at its dock on City Island
It’s been a tough few years for Harrisburg’s iconic red-and-white riverboat.
The Pride of the Susquehanna lost weeks of sailing last year due to high water. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, further cratering revenues.
“We are really in a difficult situation, which is an understatement,” said Deb Donahue, board chair for the Harrisburg Area Riverboat Society, the nonprofit that operates the Pride.
Due to pandemic restrictions, the Pride was only able to hit the water in June, and, even then, at a fraction of its full capacity. Compared to last year, revenues were down by about two-thirds through July, Donahue said.
Therefore, the society is planning a late October fundraiser so people can help the riverboat weather the financial storm.
On Oct. 24, the society will host a “Boatoberfest” fundraiser at the Vineyards and Brewery at Hershey. It will feature comedy by Marc Staudenmaier and music by the Nate Myers Trio and the Don Johnson Project, who all are generously donating their time, Donahue said. There also will be local food trucks and wine and beer from the host site.
Besides ticket sales, the society is seeking sponsors for the event.
The fundraiser, which will take place outdoors, will be capped at 200 people. All federal and state health guidelines will be strictly followed, Donahue said.
The Pride, she added, is going to try to make the most of its remaining sailing season, which runs through Nov. 7. Through the fundraiser and a late-season push, she said she is “hopeful” that the Pride will make it for its 33rd season next year.
“I hope so,” she said. “I hope so.”
Boatoberfest will take place on Oct. 24, 1 to 5 p.m., at the Vineyards and Brewery at Hershey, 598 Schoolhouse Rd., Middletown. For ticket and sponsorship information, call 717-234-6500 or visit www.harrisburgriverboat.com.
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