GRAND RAPIDS, Ohio — A weekend of duck races, live entertainment, family activities, food, and friendly competition is returning to downtown Grand Rapids as Rally by the River Days takes place July 10-12.
The annual three-day event celebrates summer along the Maumee River with activities for all ages, from cash-prize duck races and theatrical performances to a cardboard boat regatta and puppy parade. Organizers describe the weekend as a celebration of Grand Rapids’ small-town charm, local businesses, and community spirit.
Festivities begin Friday, July 10, with the Rally by the River kickoff event at Wright Pavilion from 5 to 8:30 p.m. The evening will feature live music by Eric “Tater” Edwards, live painting by Toledo artist Teeth, food from Snyder’s, a wine pull, and Grand Rapids’ famous Dougaritas. Proceeds from the kickoff event benefit the Grand Rapids Arts Council.
Also on Friday evening, the historic Town Hall will host the first performance of Anastasia at 7 p.m. The musical will return for additional performances Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
Saturday’s schedule includes children’s activities, shopping, entertainment, and the Buck-a-Duck Rubber Duck Race at 3 p.m. at the Town Hall Park Bridge. Organizers say 2,500 ducks will race down the canal, with six prizes awarded, including a $500 cash grand prize.
Families can also visit the Old Fire Station between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a rock painting craft activity hosted by the Grand Rapids Arts Council. Later in the afternoon, teams will compete in the first Corn Hole Tournament along the Towpath beginning at 4 p.m.
On Sunday, attention turns to one of the weekend’s signature events: the 4th Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at 1 p.m. Participants construct boats from cardboard and attempt to navigate the water without sinking. Creative designs are encouraged, and life jackets are required for participants.
The weekend concludes with the Puppy Parade at 4:30 p.m. Sunday. The parade begins near Town Hall and includes prizes in categories such as Most Obedient, Best Parent/Pup Dress-Up, and Oldest Pup.
In addition to the featured events, visitors will find food vendors, local shopping, canal activities, family entertainment, and opportunities to explore Grand Rapids’ historic downtown district throughout the weekend.
Those interested in participating can find registration information for the Cardboard Boat Regatta, Puppy Parade, Corn Hole Tournament, and other activities, as well as details on the Run to the Rapids 5K and a complete event schedule, at https://visitgrandrapidsohio.com/rally-by-the-river-days/.
Rally by the River Days takes place July 10-12 in downtown Grand Rapids.
