Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta

Gatlinburg’s most-nail biting race of the summer! Set against the backdrop of Gatlinburg’s fun-filled 4th of July celebration comes the ever-competitive River Raft Regatta, an annual race of unmanned floatables down the Little Pigeon River.
Float registration begins at 11 a.m. The race kicks off at 1 p.m. at the river walkway in front of the Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center and ends after all floatables have crossed the finish line at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies plaza.
Participants can rent a rubber duck for the competition for $2 each or 3 ducks for $5 onsite. All proceeds go to the Gatlinburg Chamber Foundation.
Participants can also bring their own decorated boat with whimsical or traditional décor at no cost. *Please note that all boats entered in the River Raft Regatta must not exceed 12 inches by 18 inches. Boats larger than these dimensions will not be eligible to race.
If you are participating only in the Decorating Contest, these size restrictions do not apply.
Important: No trash or debris is permitted in the river under any circumstances. Please ensure that all materials used on your raft are securely attached and removed after the event.
Winners will receive a trophy for those who finish 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Treasure, Duck, and Most Creative Float categories.
Come be a part of the 4th of July tradition beloved by Gatlinburg visitors of all ages!