Bradenton Area River Regatta Returns to Riverwalk With Two Days of Free Family Fun
The Bradenton Area River Regatta is set to make waves once again as it returns to the Bradenton Riverwalk on February 20 and 21, offering two full days of free, family-friendly entertainment along the Manatee River.
The weekend celebration kicks off Friday night, February 20, with an evening of live music, followed by a crowd-pleasing drone show and a fireworks display lighting up the downtown waterfront. The opening night has become a signature moment of the Regatta, drawing residents and visitors together for a festive start to the weekend.
Saturday, February 21, expands the excitement with a full slate of daytime activities along the Bradenton Riverwalk, including food vendors, interactive experiences, and entertainment for all ages. New this year, high-performance powerboat racing takes center stage as the Florida Formula 1 Powerboat Championship comes to Bradenton for the first time, joined by Formula Lights and Tri Hull racing events on the Manatee River.
Now in its 11th year, the Bradenton Area River Regatta continues to evolve while staying true to its mission of bringing the community together on the water. With a blend of music, spectacle, and world-class racing, the 2026 event promises another unforgettable weekend celebrating Bradenton’s vibrant waterfront.
