On June 25, the Stars and Stripes River Festival will return to the Boathouse District for its fifth year. The Fourth of July-themed festival includes the RIVERSPORT Challenge, a 500-meter kayak/5k duathlon, the PaddleFest Dragon Boat Festival, and the Paddle for the Cure, a friendly dragon boating competition benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure Central and Western Oklahoma Affiliate. Dragon boat teams of all ages and skill levels compete in OGE NightSprints under the lights of the Oklahoma River.
For anyone not competing in races, the free family festival includes live music, food truck vendors and a fireworks show. Visitors can also take part in the Boathouse District’s RIVERSPORT Adventures. With the purchase of a RIVERSPORT Adventure pass, families can enjoy the SandRidge Sky Zip, the SandRige Sky Trail adventure course, Sky Slides, the Rumble Drop and the Youth Zone. Passes also include access to kayaks, stand up paddle boards, climbing walls and more. Stars and Stripes attendees will also be allowed to experience the newly opened RIVERSPORT Rapids, a whitewater center offering rafting, kayaking and tubing.
Not only does the Stars and Stripes Festival celebrate rowing and water sports in Oklahoma City, but it also allows for the public to get a closer look at the Boathouse District and the newest additions to the RIVERSPORT activities. It’s the perfect summer kickoff with food, family and fun!