Thunder on Water is Grenada Lake’s yearly Safe Boating Festival, organized by Grenada Lake Association. The festival takes place each June at Grenada Lake — often around early-to mid-June. Many of the festival events, and camping/resort facilities, are anchored around Hugh White State Park near Grenada Lake. Thunder on Water packs a lot of variety: fun for individuals, families, and outdoor-enthusiasts alike. Typical events and attractions include:

• Carnival with rides and games — generally beginning mid-week and running through Sunday afternoon.

• Arts & crafts vendors, and a variety of food vendors.

• A big fireworks show: the festival has hosted a ~$25,000 fireworks display on Friday night over the lake — often viewed from the levee or boats gathering on the lake. Music is choreographed with the fireworks.

• A barbecue competition (sanctioned by Memphis BBQ Network) — a BBQ contest with cash prizes and trophies.

• Hot-air balloons — including a “Balloon Glow” and tethered balloon rides (weather-permitting) through a group called Delta Breeze.

• Kid-friendly activities like a “Kids Fishing Rodeo,” supported by the lake’s water-safety team and wildlife/fisheries agencies. They provide catfish and help kids bait hooks, catch fish, etc.

• A tractor-pull event (featuring antique/pre-1960 tractors) — sometimes with kids’ rides.

• Car & truck shows (antique cars, muscle cars, show cars) — also including a bike show at times — with many entries and spectators.

• Other community/festival events: past years included a “Beauty & Beau Pageant” (from youngest kids to adult categories), concerts or entertainment, safety/medical services on-site, and water-safety awareness.

If you want to stay close: camping / overnight stays near the event — especially around Hugh White State Park — are available, and camping makes it easier to enjoy multi-day events.