23-04-2025
Rock River ‘Anything That Floats' race sunk for good, organizers announce
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Organizers announced on Wednesday that the annual Rock River Anything That Floats race has been permanently canceled.
'It sailed, it sank – and it sailed again,' organizers said in a press release. 'We're proud to have done our work to carry forward a cherished Rockford tradition, even if this latest voyage now draws to a close. Maybe a new crew of river-loving Rockfordians will dream up what comes next. We hope someone will.'
The event, which was started in 1976 and then revived in 2017, was canceled in 2024 due to a '.'
According to organizers, 'In recent years, however, it became increasingly difficult for the race's volunteer steering committee to secure the sponsorship and participation support necessary to keep the event afloat.'
The annual race featured homemade rafts in the 1.65-mile race down the river, with a grand finish at Prairie Street Brewhouse.
'With floating tiki bars, dragons, outhouses, Viking ships, FRAGILE leg lamps and every other imaginable vessel cobbled together in backyards and garages of local teams, the race brought together engineers and amateurs, businesses and families, old friends and new,' organizers said.
The race has helped to raise donations to support local efforts for the Fourth of July celebration, Rockford Ski Broncs, Rock River Trail Initiative, and other area non-profits and charities.
Organizers said the will remain live for a short time, so past participants and spectators can retrieve photos of past events.
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