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July 21-22, 2023
Festival Countdown

Festival Fun in the Heart of Colorado

The 14th Annual Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival (RGWF) features whitewater competitions and land-based recreation events to celebrate the whitewater season on the Arkansas River. Enjoy summer flows in a fantastic whitewater setting in historic Cañon City, Colorado. Held in the refurbished and family-friendly Centennial Park, the Whitewater Festival pairs boats, bands, and beer for a weekend of fun-filled (and whitewater-fueled) events. It's the biggest party of the summer in Cañon City and one not to be missed! Proceeds of this event benefit the Cañon City community. All are welcome to register for events or to watch the fun unfold!

2023 Photos

Admission

​$5 - Adults
FREE - Children 12 and under (with adult)

Purchase a 2-day festival XpressPASS for $10 at the following locations:
Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance (424 Main St.) - Cash or credit card
Kaleidoscope Inspiration (602 Main St.)  - Cash or credit card
My Brother's Place (625 Main St.) - Cash only
Gift Chateau (731 Main St.) - Cash only
Express passes are available starting July 1 at the above locations. They'll allow you to head to the front of the lines at festival gates. 

Festival Rules

1. With the exception of Weenie Dog Race participants, no dogs are allowed at the festival.
2. Outside food and drink (with the exception of empty water bottles to refill at the water refill station) is NOT allowed.
3. ID's WILL be checked at the bar. Please bring yours with you if you plan to buy or consume alcoholic beverages.

Thank you for your help in keeping the festival safe and enjoyable for all!

Downloadable Information
See a downloadable version of the schedule here. Please note that some events are subject to change due to weather, water level, etc. 
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See The Schedule

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volunteer for Festival

VOLUNTEER FOR GREAT ESCAPE TRAIL EVENTS

Get in on the action!

About RGWF

Fan Favorite Events

BUILD YOUR OWN BOAT

RAFT RODEO

TRAIL EVENTS

LIVE MUSIC ALL WEEKEND

Festival Map & Location

Centennial Park is conveniently located near historic downtown in Cañon City, Colorado. On the banks of the Arkansas River, the park offers excellent spectator viewing of the events. 

Bike Parking and Gear Storage

Ride your bike or scooter to the Whitewater Festival and park it in the 'Gear Storage' area. This will be a secure location staffed by volunteers (donations accepted), located in the basketball court area at Centennial Park. Bring your own lock! You can also store paddle boards and kayaks in between events.

Friday, 3:00 pm - close
Saturday, 9:00 am - 11:00 pm

2023 Presenting and Class V Sponsors

Whitewater Festival is brought to you by our generous sponsors.

See All Sponsors

Our Partners

Profits from the festival benefit Royal Gorge RIO (formerly the Whitewater Kayak Recreation Park or WKRP). This non-profit organization supports the continued expansion of the Whitewater Park, river restoration, and community causes.