10th Annual Mahogany & Merlot Upping the Ante

Promoters have been told this is the largest Vintage Raceboat Regatta in the Nation

by Dennis Rahm

The 2019 edition of Mahogany and Merlot has evolved into a full-fledged community event that will offer activities for all interests and ages. While it will still center on classic wood boats, vintage unlimited hydroplanes, and classic cars, this year’s event promises a full slate of other fun activities encompassing games, food, beverages, live music, and more.

Sponsored by the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce, Mahogany and Merlot is being produced by Rotten Apple Productions known locally for their summer live comedy series. Rotten Apple and the Chamber collaborated on presenting a couple of comedy shows at the historic Ruby Theatre last summer and that relationship led to the company’s involvement in helping to grow the existing Fall event.

Shaimoom Newaz of Rotten Apple tells LakeChelanNow he’s excited for the opportunity to grow the event and that major additions are already in place that will add to the enjoyment of those who attend.

“It’s becomming one of those banner events that Chelan can be proud of” – Shai Newaz

The free Friday night kickoff in downtown Chelan will include a display of boats along Woodin Avenue, live music and a beer garden.

Most of the Mahogany and Merlot activities will take pace in Don Morse Park on Saturday and Sunday. The park will host a vendor village, live music, beer and wine tents, games such as cornhole, Saturday night fireworks and a Sunday morning Bloody Mary Bar.

Kelsey Guy of Rotten Apple appreciates the public response to the changes being made to this year’s event and gives LakeChelanNow a detailed preview of what event goers will experience.

“The community has been so supportive of the effort to really build out this event” – Kelsey Guy