Bigfork Whitewater Festival

51st Annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival Returns Memorial Day Weekend

BIGFORK, MONTANA — The 51st Annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival returns May 23–24, 2026, bringing a full weekend ;b of whitewater racing, community events, live music, and river culture back to downtown Bigfork. Hosted on the iconic “Wild Mile” section of the Swan River, the Festival remains one of the longest-running whitewater events in the western United States and an annual kickoff to summer in the Flathead Valley.

Each Memorial Day weekend, professional and amateur paddlers from across the region gather in Bigfork to compete in kayak, raft, and stand-up paddleboard events on the Wild Mile — a scenic and challenging Class IV stretch of whitewater that flows directly through downtown Bigfork. Spectators can enjoy front-row viewing access from the Swan River Nature Trail, downtown bridge crossings, and multiple viewing areas throughout town.

Festival events include Boater-X racing, slalom competitions, downriver races, raft head-to-head heats, SUP races in Bigfork Bay, the community Flower Float, vendor areas, food, live music, and the Saturday night dance party.

The Bigfork Whitewater Festival directly benefits Montana Kayak Academy, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing whitewater kayaking instruction, river safety education, and river stewardship opportunities for youth and adults throughout the Flathead Valley and beyond.

“The Festival has always been more than just a race,” said Montana Kayak Academy Executive Director David Meyers. “It’s a celebration of river culture, community, outdoor recreation, and the incredible history of paddling in Bigfork. We’re proud to continue growing an event that supports youth programming and helps connect more people to our rivers.”

The Festival is free for spectators and welcomes athletes, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and community members of all ages.

More information, registration details, volunteer opportunities, sponsorship information, and the full event schedule can be found at Bigforkwhitewaterfestival.com

‍