The American River Festival is best known for its whitewater kayaking events, especially the “Kayak Rodeo Contest” and the slalom races. We also have several specialty events, with fun guaranteed for all.
The Imagine Surf Stand-Up Paddle Board Race
This is going to be off the hook! Sponsored by Imagine Surf Paddle Boards. More information to come soon.
Whitewater Kayak Rodeo
This is among one of the local favorite events. Raft, Kayak or paddle down from Chili Bar to 1st Threat Rapid, and enjoy watching kayak Pro’s and novice surf, spin, flip and play in the wave earning points for tricks.
Topo Duo/Dynamic Duo Races
We provide all of the boats and gear as necessary for folks. You can sign up and race as many times as you want. Check out the different categories like parent/kid, coed etc. and get your teams together!
(Sponsor?) 8 Ball
Any plastic whitewater kayak under 11.5 feet is allowed in this race. We’ll have preliminary runs with multiple paddlers in a mass start from the 49 bridge. The semi-finals (if needed) and finals will also involve two “8 ball” paddlers dressed in black, who will attempt to deter the paddlers from reaching the finish line at Henningsen-Lotus Park beach.
Slalom Kayaking Race
The slalom at the Nugget is a fun race for paddlers from novice to expert. The paddlers will be required to negotiate 18 gates through class 2+ rapids. The course is laid out so that it is challenging to advanced paddlers, but novice paddlers will have the option of skipping the most challenging gate. Spectators can enjoy watching the entire race from the bridge abutment or island and both admission and parking are free.
River Boarders Race & Surf Contest
They call him “River Dave” and if you show up for this event, you can ask him why? If you have ever had the opportunity to Ride the river on a River Board, you will love to be apart of this event. All River Boarders Welcome. Please see the Schedule.
Kids Kayaking Fun Fest
We will supply the boats and gear (unless you have your own and want to bring it). There are morning and afternoon sessions (each is a separate event and a separate charge). Current Adventures Kayaking and CCK will have a number of professional instructors available to paddle with and help teach the kids things like proper boat control, river safety and how to have fun in a river kayak!
Friends of the River Annual Gear Swap
Need river gear? Got too much? Maybe you just want to make some money off that old bucket boat to buy your own self-bailing raft? Drop off your gear starting at 8:00am. Volunteers will be there to help you unload. Set the price for your gear or we can do it for you. When your gear sells 10% goes to FOR and the rest (minus tax) comes back to you! Come join the fun!
