Rock River Anything That Floats Race

More than just an homage to the incredibly popular raft races of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s - the Rock River Anything That Floats Race is a tradition for new generations of Rockfordians to love and experience.

New this year will be a category for rafts using boat hulls. Hulled craft from canoes to rowboats to ski boats can be decorated and compete for First, Second and Third speed prizes. In addition, traditional DIY rafts will compete in their own speed category, and People Choice and the ‘Frank Schier Creativity’ Judges Choice awards will decide the most creative designs. 

For the Chuck-a-Duck race rubber ducks will be dropped into the river off the Whitman St. Bridge and will float downstream to Prairie Street Brewing Co. Cash prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place finishers of the duck race. Participants may purchase individual ducks for $5, or a pack of five ducks for $20 with proceeds benefiting local charities.

The race course is 1.65 miles in length and ends in a grand finish at Prairie Street Brewhouse. The scenic course offers a variety of viewing options for the thousands of spectators who will attend: Auburn Street Bridge, the Whitman Street Bridge, and along the Rock River Recreation Path.

Schedule of events:

• 10:00 a.m.: Sign-in starts (all categories)
• 12:00 p.m.: Race begins at the Auburn Street bridge
• 3:30 p.m.: Rubber Duck Drop off the Whitman Street Bridge
• 4:30 p.m.: Awards ceremony at Prairie Street Brewhouse
• 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: After-party at Prairie Street Brewing Company featuring local band Dirty Fishnet Stockings