FESTIVITIES

SCHEDULE

PARTICIPATE

VOLUNTEER

SPONSOR

July 18-19

Festival Fun in the Heart of Colorado

The 16th 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!

2024 PHOTOS

2023 Photos

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. ​
   
4. All children under the age of 16 MUST be accompanied by an adult. 

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

Buy your 2-Day Express Pass and save money!  Locations coming soon!
2-Day Express Pass: $15

Local Appreciation Pre-Sale. $8
Fremont County locals can purchase tickets in advance and save! Purchasing locations coming soon.

Get the full V.I.P. experience at the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival! Includes express entrance, exclusive tent access, VIP viewing area, dedicated restrooms, complimentary drinks, and more! Tickets are limited. Get the 1-Day V.I.P Pass for $75, 2-Day V.I.P Pass for $140. See more information here. 

Purchase VIP Tickets

At the gate: 
​$10 - Adults | CASH ONLY
Children under 5 - FREE
Please note that children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. ​

See The Schedule

Attend

REGISTER

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

Hosted by Cañon City Piranhas Swim Team
Friday, 3:00 pm to close of festival
Saturday, 9:00 am to 11:00 pm
Cost: FREE, donations graciously accepted 

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 from the Cañon City Piranhas swim team (donations accepted). Find the storage area in the basketball court area at Centennial Park - located at the westernmost portion of the park. Bring your own lock for added security. 

Event participants: You can also store paddle boards and kayaks in between events. You’ll receive a tag for each item which will be required to check the items back out. Bring your own lock for added security. Volunteers will monitor the fenced area and facilitate check in / check out.  

2025 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.