Floatplane rally at Stillwater Landing this week

A gathering of seaplanes and music comes to the Stillwater Landing west of Whitefish this weekend with the semi-annual Splash In event.

The Glacier Pilots chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association sponsors the event Aug. 8-9 on Lower Stilllwater Lake.

Bill Montgomery, owner of Stillwater Landing, said the event draws float and amphibious planes from all over the country, along with musicians from Nashville, Austin and Seattle.

“It’s about the love of flying and music,” he said. “It’s like a big kids summer camp.”

The Splash In first began in 1995 and eventually moved to every other year. Roughly a dozen to more than 30 airplanes fly in for the event. Many people bring their instruments to jam around the campfire.

“We’ve had prominent musicians here,” Montgomery said. “The music is old time — mix of bluegrass, folk, classical and anything anybody wants to play.”

Radoslav Lorkovic, a Croatian born folk and blues musician, known for his flair on the piano and accordion, will perform during the event. Cellist Lee Zimmerman will also perform.

Vendors will provide food for purchase during the weekend and camping is available at Stillwater Landing.

There is no charge and the Splash In is open to the public. For more information, call Stillwater Landing at 881-2236.