It's like a page from a novel: Blue sky, glistening pastels dancing on the water, cool breezes, soft green grass and succulent strawberries melting into warm shortcake as the afternoon passes with friendly conversation and a relaxing jaunt through a picturesque atmosphere.

Stella Maris Retreat and Renewal Center, described by Lynne Haberstock as “the gem of Skaneateles,” encompasses both the beauty of Skaneateles Lake and the stunning views of the surrounding town. So what better place to hold a feast for the stomach and eyes during its second annual Strawberry Festival.

It is a family event with live entertainment, artisans, exciting raffles, games and activities for children as well as a celebration of delicious strawberry treats.

Included in the entertainment will be jazz band Soda Ash; contemporary music by Sharu, composed of high school seniors, “who are just very talented,” and music by the Skaneateles String Duo.

“If you're between the ages of 0 and 100, you'll be happy,” said Haberstock, the event's co-chairperson. The event will offer sales from many local artisans including painters, quilters, stained glass, fine arts and a restorer of mantle pieces. There will also be tours of the facility, which Haberstock assures is so much more than a spiritual venue, but also “a community asset.”

The proceeds of the festival will go into a restoration reserve fund to ensure the facility sees many more years to come.

She emphasizes the abundance of delicious strawberry treats, including strawberry ice-cream, cotton candy, chocolate dipped strawberries and shortcake. “There'll be strawberries galore. It doesn't get any better.”

Staff writer Beth Noyes can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 252 or at beth.noyes@lee.net