Lakefest is an annual fundraising event sponsored by Marinas International to promote awareness of not only the lakes, but the many worthy charities that serve the DFW area. Nearly $500,000 has been raised over the last decade and has benefitted many well known charities including the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Legacy Brain Foundation and the American Cancer Society. The beneficiary for the 2014 event is the Texas Association for Infant Mental Health (TAIMH) -advocates for the youngest residents of the community, children under three years old.

Lakefest Grapevine operates purely through the kindness of volunteers and sponsors, donating 100 percent of all funds raised. The primary goal of Lakefest has always been to raise money; raise awareness; and to give back to the community; but, the mission is two-fold and the lakeside venue is the key element to its success. "Marinas International is dedicated to introducing the lakes and boating to the public," says Shannon Funk, Marketing Director for Marinas International. "There are many venues that would suit our needs for Lakefest, but we want to stay true to our mission by having the festival lakeside in an effort to afford non-boaters the opportunity to enjoy the lakes and waterways right here in their own backyard."

Gates open at 2 p.m. on October 4 at Silver Lake Marina Park in Grapevine Texas. Attractions will include live music, food and beverage vendors, the End Zone- including craft beer and college football, the Kids Zone with games and prizes, product booths and also merchandise booths for the performers. The 2014 line-up includes: Cody Jasper; Kalee Rutland; Ray Johnston; Breaking Southwest; Roger Creager & Wade Bowen. General admission and VIP access tickets are available. For tickets or sponsorship and volunteer opportunities see the website at: www.lakefesttx.com.