Aqua Palooza brings new fun to Rock Falls River Chase

Rock Falls is introducing a new family-friendly celebration to its Rock Falls River Chase.

Rock Falls Tourism announced the inaugural Aqua Palooza, a new two-day, family-friendly summer celebration on August 15 – 16 throughout Rock Falls. The celebration will be held in conjunction with the Rock Falls River Chase, featuring boat races, live music, fishing, a brand-new Cardboard Regatta and family activities at multiple locations throughout the city.

The Rock Falls River Chase is the weekend’s signature event, taking place on Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. both days at Seward’s Riverside Park, 606 E. 2nd Street. Spectators will be thrilled as powerboat racers reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour on the Rock River. Food and beverage vendors will be available throughout the event.

The Optimist Club Kids Fishing Derby will be held at Centennial Park, 508 E. 11th Street, on Saturday, August 15. Registration starts at 8 a.m. at the Larson Shelter and fishing will take place from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. The derby is open to children of all ages, and participation is free.

A free concert featuring The Brotherhood Band will be held on August 15 at the RB&W District Park, 201 E. 2nd Street, starting at 7 p.m. Food and beverage vendors will begin serving at 5:00 p.m.

The first-ever Cardboard Regatta will be held on Sunday, August 16, at Centennial Park, 508 E. 11^th Street. Teams will race homemade cardboard boats across the water in a fun-filled competition that will entertain participants and spectators alike. Spectators can see the creative cardboard boat entries starting at 11:30 a.m. near the paddle boat docks before the races start at 1 p.m. Teams will race homemade cardboard boats across the water.

Registration for the Cardboard Regatta is $10 per person/boat. Boaters must register by August 10. Registration forms for adults and minors, competition rules, and printable waivers are available at Click here (9) for registration forms, rules and printable waivers or visit the Rock Falls Tourism Office, 603 W. 10^th Street.

The Sauk Valley Ski Shows Duck Race ends the weekend at Seward’s Riverside Park, 606 E. 2^nd Street. Residents can purchase a duck for the race and the winning duck will receive 50% of the proceeds. The remaining funds will benefit the Sauk Valley Water Ski Team.

“We’re excited to introduce Aqua Palooza as another opportunity for families and visitors to experience everything Rock Falls has to offer,” said Melinda Jones, Director of Rock Falls Tourism. “From high-speed boat racing and live music to fishing, creative competitions, and family activities, Aqua Paloozaoffers something for everyone while showcasing our beautiful riverfront and community.”

Click here for a complete event schedule, registration information and more details or contact Rock Falls Tourism at 815-622-1106.

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