Maker's Market is August 1st, 9a-5p at Gateway Depot & Plaza!
THE ROYAL GORGE WHITEWATER FESTIVAL IS JULY 18 & 19, 2026
2026 Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival
The 17th 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 Cañon City 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!
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WATER EVENTS
WATER EVENTS
WATER EVENTS
Kayak races and raft rodeos to SUP cross, river boarding, and the crowd-favorite Build Your Own Boat challenge, there’s no shortage of action on the Arkansas River at the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival.
LAND EVENTS
WATER EVENTS
WATER EVENTS
From trail runs and mountain biking to the legendary Weenie Dog Race, there’s plenty of adventure to be had on solid ground at the Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival. No paddle required.
LIVE MUSIC
WATER EVENTS
LIVE MUSIC
Live bands rock two stages all weekend long. So grab a cold craft beer, soak up the Colorado summer nights, and dance your way through one of Cañon City’s biggest celebrations of the year.
WHO THIS EVENT IS FOR
I Want to Watch Events!
No gear required. Just show up and enjoy the ride. Find the perfect spot along the banks of the Arkansas River and watch world-class paddlers, rafters, and competitors take on one of Colorado’s most iconic stretches of whitewater.
I Want to Compete!
No gear required. Just show up and enjoy the ride. Find the perfect spot along the banks of the Arkansas River and watch world-class paddlers, rafters, and competitors take on one of Colorado’s most iconic stretches of whitewater.
I Want to Enjoy The Weekend!
Good music, cold beer, great food, and Colorado sunshine. The Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival has everything you need for an unforgettable summer weekend in Cañon City. Bring the family, bring your friends, and come ready to have fun.
WHO ORGANIZES THE ROYAL GORGE WHITEWATER FESTIVAL?
Royal Gorge Rio
Royal Gorge River Initiative Organization is a volunteer-led nonprofit dedicated to the stewardship, conservation, and promotion of the river corridor.
It supports improvement projects, education, events, and youth paddle sports as the parent club of the national champion men’s under-19 rafting team.
Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance Foundation
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As part of the Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance, the Foundation supports its members and community by promoting the Greater Cañon City area and serving as the first point of contact for businesses and visitors.
Fremont County Foundation
Fremont County Foundation
As a member of Fremont Community Foundation,, enjoy exclusive benefits and discounts on a range of products and services. Join us today to take advantage of these perks.
ROYAL GORGE WHITEWATER FESTIVAL OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER & PHOTOGRAPHER IS GROUND 2 AIR PRODUCTIONS
