Racing returns to the Oklahoma River Oct. 2-4 as the Oklahoma Regatta Festival brings three days of competition and family fun to the Boathouse District.
The annual festival features the Oklahoma City University Head of the Oklahoma, RIVERSPORT Rowing and Dragon Boat League Championships and the OG&E NightSprints, with teams taking to the water throughout the weekend.
Admission to the festival and races is free, with viewing available throughout the Boathouse District. Parking is $10 and free for RIVERSPORT members.
Racing from morning to night
The weekend begins Friday from 6-10 p.m. with the RIVERSPORT Rowing and Dragon Boat League Championships and OG&E NightSprints.
The festival’s signature nighttime races send competitors down a 500-meter course after sunset. Better Life readers will have some familiar faces to cheer for, too — the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber rowing team will compete in the ARL Women’s 500 at 8:40 p.m. Friday.
Spectators are encouraged to help light up the night with glow sticks, lighted costumes and plenty of sparkle. Friday night also includes the OG&E Watt Challenge, where visitors can test their own rowing skills to power light-up towers, along with basketball-inspired activities at the OG&E ThunderBolt.
On Saturday, racing begins at 8 a.m. with the OCU Head of the Oklahoma. Teams from across the country compete in 2.5-mile head races, with collegiate, masters and junior rowers taking part. Daytime racing continues until 4 p.m. before the OG&E NightSprints return from 7-9 p.m.
The Head of the Oklahoma resumes Sunday at 8 a.m., with the festival wrapping up at noon.
Watch from the riverfront
Spectators can find views of the racing throughout the Boathouse District, with the Finish Line Tower offering a spot to cheer as teams make their final push.
Those looking to upgrade their Friday night experience can purchase a $20 VIP viewing pass for the Devon Boathouse, which includes dinner, indoor viewing, air conditioning and access to a cash bar for guests 21 and older.
Whether you spend an entire day along the Oklahoma River or stop by after dark for the NightSprints, the Oklahoma Regatta Festival offers a front-row look at one of the sports that has helped shape the Boathouse District.
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