Spring season underway at Montgomery Whitewater
Montgomery Whitewater has officially kicked off its spring season.
The festivities got underway Saturday morning with rafting and paddling.
Later, for the first time ever, people were allowed to bring a pool float from home and race down the competition channel in the Lucky Ducky races.
Hundreds of spectators were on hand to cheer the contestants during the races.
The 120-acre park is anchored by the world’s most technologically advanced whitewater system.
This season will feature various events, including concerts, local, national and international competitions (including the US Olympic Team trials) and family-friendly festival-style events.
Friday Night Live Series – February 9-March 29
On Friday evenings from 6-9 p.m. this spring, Montgomery Whitewater hosts singers, songwriters and performers on the patio at Eddy’s restaurant for live music with a breathtaking sunset view over the Alabama River.
The Get Down Concert Series – Saturdays at 5:00 p.m., March 16-May 4
Nationally touring and emerging artists, many with roots in the region, will take the main stage at the park each Saturday in the spring, providing the perfect soundtrack to rafting and outdoor fun or a sunset happy hour. Previous artists have included Clay Street Unit and Missy Raines.
U.S. Open Whitewater Championships – March 22-24
The park brings a long-standing paddling tradition to Montgomery in partnership with the Nantahala Racing Club. Open to anyone with intermediate to expert slalom skills, this race will be attended by the country’s top whitewater athletes, including Olympians and World Champions, making it a perfect way to experience Montgomery’s newest adventure sport. The competition runs from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. daily and will be complemented by live music performances.
U.S. Canoe Slalom & Kayak Cross Olympic Team Trials – April 13-14
The road to Paris will run through Montgomery when the nation’s greatest paddle athletes gather to vie for a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team. Live music and family-friendly activities will complete this monumental weekend.
All Forward Corporate Raft Race – May 11
Businesses, clubs and corporations from around the state will take on the ultimate team-building challenge of whitewater rafting as six-person crews compete for the title “Fastest Whitewater Rafting Team in Alabama.” Whitewater rafting experience is not required as teams will be partnered with a raft guide. Participants and guests can enjoy a day of live music performances, good food and cold drinks and a variety of on-site activities.
The park is always free to enter, and information on whitewater rafting, kayaking and flatwater paddling for all experience levels can be found here.
