First-ever East Race Whitewater Festival this June

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – The East Race season kicks off this month with the first-ever East Race Whitewater Festival from June 4-6.

Event organizers, in collaboration with the South Bend Venues Parks & Arts, are inviting people of all ages and skills for a weekend of fun and competition at the East Race Waterway in downtown.

“We are really excited to team up and host this new event as the season-opener for the East Race Waterway,” said Aquatics Manager, Meghan Huff. “The East Race is a place for everyone to enjoy, regardless of skillset, and this event is the perfect introduction to a fun summer thrill!”

The Festival will feature competitors from across the United States in the following categories:

Boatercross: a sprint between 4-5 kayakers on both long and short kayaks.

Freestyle: consist of 45 second spins, loops, surfs and cartwheels which are sure to wow the crowd!

Riverboarding: competitors will lay on their stomachs and propel themselves using fins.

The Pool Floatie Race, a competition for both the experienced and inexperienced, will also be held during the Festival.

Participants will bring their own floaties, helmets, and PFD’s for the competition.

The Festival will be held in the PeopleLink parking lot across the street from The Lauber restaurant. Food trucks and gear vendors will be available for participants, spectators, and the community as a whole.

Click here to learn more about and register for the Festival.

The East Race Waterway will open for the season on Sunday, June 6 and remain open every weekend through September.

Click here for day passes and season tickets.