The much-anticipated return of summer comes a little earlier to the shores of Lake Lanier with the opening of Lanier Islands’ beach, boardwalk and waterpark entertainment district, LanierWorld.

The May 6 opening includes a variety of restaurants and concessions, a five-story high HD spectacular screen, miniature golf course, and more than a dozen waterslides and attractions.

Celebrating an extended summer season this year, the park will be open on weekends through Oct. 1, and open daily from May 22 through Aug. 6.

“Lanier Islands is looking forward to an ‘eventful’ summer season at LanierWorld,” said Bucky Perry, the resort’s director of operations. “We’re bringing back all of our fan-favorite rides and slides, and placing more of an emphasis on the overall guest experience with great open-air concerts, memorable holiday celebrations and carnival-inspired monthly Full Moon Parties. We’re also debuting a delicious new menu at our popular beachfront Sunset Cove Café.”

The resort will host a 5K Foam Fest beginning at noon with a live performance by Ray Fulcher on the Sunset Stage from 7-11 p.m. Saturday, May 6. The Foam Fest is an obstacle course that includes the world’s largest inflatable waterslide, mud pits and 2.5 million cubic feet of foam.

Sunday, May 7 will boast a DJ in the early afternoon followed by a live performance by Johnny Summers on the Sunset Stage from 3-6 p.m. Both days will feature fun and games on the beach, led by the Islands’ Legacy Kids Camp Counselors and appearances by LanierWorld mascot, Bucky the Beaver. LanierWorld will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 6, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 7.

To register for the 5K Foam Fest, visit www.lanierislands.com or call 770-945-8787.