BRADENTON, Fla. — The Bradenton Area River Regatta is returning on Saturday, February 8 for the sixth year in a row. Organizers estimate that 100,000 people will attend the event that spans across the Manatee River and offers entertainment and dining options in both Bradenton and Palmetto.
Here are five things to know before you go. There are also related links at the bottom of this story.
- In addition to the high-speed F-2 Powerboat races, this year’s event will also feature Jersey speed ‘skiff’ racing. These boats are oddly shaped two-person skiffs that can reach speeds of 80 miles per hour.
- Want to run? New this year is the LECOM Regatta Bridge Run. It is a 5K run and walk that goes through the streets of Palmetto and finishes on the Green Bridge. The race begins at 5:30 p.m.
- Don’t miss the fireworks! This year’s fireworks show will be produced by Zambelli International and begin around 6:50 p.m. They will be visible over the Manatee River.
- Live music will be playing on both sides of the Manatee River. Bowie Live, a David Bowie Tribute band, will be headlining on the Bradenton main stage, and the Andy Pursell Band will be headlining in Palmetto.
- There will be 5,000 free ear-clip headsets available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Fans can follow all the racing action through the headsets which are available at the base of the Green Bridge in both Palmetto and Bradenton.
Some of the best places to watch the races are from the Bradenton Riverwalk, the Palmetto Pier, Riverside Drive, and the Green Bridge.
The Green Bridge will be closed to traffic all day and a shuttle service will be available to take people back and forth to both sides.
Want to park in Bradenton? Here's our recommendations.
Want to park in Palmetto? Check out this list.
For a full list of events and scheduled start times, please visit the Bradenton Area River Regatta’s website.