Bennettsville brings annual Summer Beach Blast to shores of Lake Paul Wallace

Like the Zac Brown Band sings in their hit song “Toes,” many people will have their toes in the water, (bleep) in the sand next weekend at Lake Paul Wallace in Bennettsville for the annual Summer Beach Blast.
Now in its eighth year, the event is put on by the City of Bennettsville, but veteran Beach Blaster Mike Tatum has become an unofficial supporter and promoter of the daylong party by the lake. He has set up a facebook group page that boasts about 400 fans and is selling T-shirts that bear the “Toes” song lyrics, along with a Beach Blast logo.
“The day of Beach Blast is by far my favorite day of the year,” Tatum said. “Beach Blast is something that we here in Marlboro County can call our own. Everyone feels right at home on the shores of Lake Paul Wallace, whether they are locals or guests from the surrounding area. It’s a day that is replete with fun, food and fellowship where you leave you worries at the gate.”
Set against the back drop of Lake Paul Wallace, the Beach Blast draws about 1,500 to 2,500 people, Marlboro Parks and Recreation Director Dennis Miller said.
“It’s a large community event and the people love it,” Miller said. “If they had it their way, we’d do this three times a year.”
But alas, the Beach Blast only comes around once a year, so pack your coolers, tents, beach towels, sunscreen and sunshades for this all-day event. Boaters and jet skiers are welcome, too.
Rhonda Frazier, Bennettsville Visitor Center director, said DJ David Graham will get the party started at 11 a.m. Dan E. Lockemy from Sunny 105.5 will broadcast his “At the Beach” show from 3 to 7 p.m.
Then hitting the stage at 7 p.m. will be The Craig Woolard Band, “the top beach band going right now,” Miller said.
After 27 years as the frontman for The Embers, “The Soul Man of Beach Music,” as Craig Woolard has been called, is performing with his own self-titled band. They are said to have one of the most diverse repertoires and original crowd participation shows in the industry.
Besides live entertainment, there will be food vendors and games and activities planned, including a volleyball tournament and shagging contest.
Veteran Beach Blasters like Tatum, however, will be hosting their own games such as beer pong, boat races, limbo and plenty more.
The cost for the Beach Blast is $5; free for kids ages 8 and younger.

Tips for first-time Beach Blasters
n Come early to get a spot: Many people who bring boats will set up a tent closer to the stage on the terraced hills for later in the evening. If you want a place on the beach or on the hills, you’d better set up camp early.
n Coolers/grills: Coolers are welcome, but no glass is allowed. Grills will not be allowed in the beach area, nor on the hills. There will be plenty of food for sale by vendors. However, grills will be allowed in the landing area where the boats are parked.
n Boaters: All boaters planning to use the lake for the day will have to pay the $5 entry fee. Boaters will also be asked to park their vehicles across the street to allow easy access for emergency vehicles.
n Keep it clean: There will be trash receptacles on site, but you also may bring your trash bags to help keep the lake area clean.
n Be safe: Alcohol is welcome at this event, but remember that a long day in the sun can increase the effects of alcohol. Please drink responsibly and have a designated driver. The event ends at 11 p.m. No overnite beach bums allowed.