Manatee County’s Largest Spectator Event

SAVE THE DATES…Feb. 20-21, 2026!

The all FREE, 11th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta happens February 20-21, 2026 featuring ABBA and Fleetwood Mac National Tribute Bands and the sensational sights and sounds of the the Sky Elements Lighted Drone and Zambelli Fireworks Show.

And, for the first time…the Florida Formula 1 Championships come to the event…plus, two additional race circuit series—Formula Lights and Tri-Hulls…for one thunderous showing of all day racing. Be there!

The Florida Formula 1 Championships—Where the Stakes are High, and the Boats Fly…Start Your Engines!

Celebrating 11 Years as Manatee County’s Biggest and Best Civic Event. Join Us when the All FREE Fun Starts with Opening Night, Friday, Feb. 20 and Continues Through Saturday, Feb. 21!

Opening Night Friday, Feb. 20, Rossi Park Along the Riverwalk

We call it: “Friday Night Flash”…the evening will start with muscial performances from national ABBA tribute band: ABBA NOVA!…and the talented Bella Garland. Then, get ready for an incredible dynamic and dual luminous extravaganza combining drones and fireworks from the world-famous Sky Elements Drone Light Show and America’s premier fireworks company—Zambelli! [click here for complete evening schedule]

NIGHT ARTISTRY—THE SKY ELEMENTS DRONE LIGHT SHOW WITH ZAMBELLI FIREWORKS FINALE!

All Day Saturday, Feb. 21, Bradenton Riverwalk and Riverside Park in Palmetto

It’s followed by an all day slate of Formula 1 Powerboat Racing—at speeds over 120/mph— and free family fun. It’s fast, furious and full of edge-of-your-seat thrills! [click here for full day schedule]

Be Here…for the Most Attended Race on the Powerboat Circuit!

Come Along for the Ride…for your convenience, a continual and FREE TROLLEY will run all day on Saturday across the Green Bridge to make trips between activities in Bradenton and Palmetto fast and easy!

Plenty of Parking too…you’ll find lots of parking, too, in both cities. Check ahead by clicking here, for Bradenton parking, or here to find parking locations and access in Palmetto.

For the latest in road closures and event traffic information, click here.

We sincerely thank all of our great sponsors, partners and, most importantly, residents and spectators who make the region’s most dynamic and anticipated event “sizzle the shore.”

Even better, put yourself and your business within the heart of all the excitement and action. For sponsorship platforms and activations, e-mail Mike Fetchko: mfetchko@aol.com because: You Gotta Regatta!

Marine Safety First!

Marine Conservation Do’s/Don’ts:

  • DO place trash in proper receptacles and recycle
  • DO adhere to all posted speed zones including Manatee Slow Speed Zones
  • DO assign a boat lookout wearing polarized sunglasses to watch for marine wildlife
  • DO be safe and have fun!
  • DON’T harass, harm, chase, collect, wound, kill or touch manatees, sea turtles or dolphins as those actions are illegal and violators may face prosecution, fines and/or jail.

Start the Year
Running. Enter the LECOM “Run the Riverwalk” 5K
Now! For complete race details and registration, enter here!