The lakeshore promises to be a hub of activity this weekend, as the local chamber of commerce prepares for the Orillia Waterfront Festival.

Running from Aug. 8 to 10 at the Port of Orillia and neighbouring parklands, the annual event typically draws between 12,000 and 20,000 people.

“If we have a good weekend, it works out really well,” said show manager Doug Bunker. “Mother Nature is obviously a factor.”

In addition to featuring a selection of boats for sale, as well as cottage and outdoor products, the festival offers artists, entertainment, land and water shows.

Performers include Northern Harbour, a tribute to Jimmy Buffett, blues sensation Erin McCallum, Chuck Moore and Guests, Orillia Grand Ole Opry, and the Steven Henry Band.

The perennially crowd-pleasing Great Cardboard Boat Race once again takes place at the Port of Orillia fishing dock at noon on Sunday.

“We have had anywhere from 12 to 23 boats,” Bunker said of the wet and wild event.

As for the rules?

“The boats have to be made out of cardboard and they have to be able to withstand criticism,” he added with a laugh.

Representatives from Environmental Defense will be on hand to educate visitors on efforts to protect Lake Simcoe.

“The (Ministry of Natural Resources) and the Ladies of the Lake are going to be there too,” Bunker added.

The weekend event coincides with the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual tribute to the golden age of rock and roll.

Great Legends of the Legion promises performances by a range of artists specializing in the music of Elvis, Buddy Holly, Connie Francis, and others.

The Legion has scheduled a steak barbecue for Friday at 6 p.m. and breakfast in the Normandy Room on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m.

The finals for tribute competitions will be held Sunday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. in the Normandy Room.