Grab Your Kayak! Floatzilla Returns to the Quad Cities This August

Floatzilla, the largest paddle event on the Mississippi River, returns to the Quad Cities on Saturday, August 15, bringing kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders together for one unforgettable day on the water. Whether you're an experienced paddler or trying it for the first time, there's a route designed for every skill level.

Floatzilla Poster

What Is Floatzilla?

Hosted by River Action, Floatzilla is more than just a paddle. It's a celebration of the Mississippi River and one of the Quad Cities' biggest outdoor events of the summer.

Participants can launch from eight different locations throughout the Quad Cities, choosing routes that range from short, beginner-friendly paddles to longer adventures that include traveling through a lock and dam. Throughout the day, thousands of paddlers make their way to Lake Potter in Rock Island, where everyone gathers for the iconic group photo and world-record attempt.

Race, Paddle, or Just Have Fun

Floatzilla also includes an optional 10-mile Dam-to-Dam Kayak, Canoe, and Stand-Up Paddleboard Race for competitive paddlers.

If you're more interested in relaxing, simply enjoy the paddle and then head to Floatzillapalooza, where you'll find:

• Live music from The Funktastic 5
• Food vendors
• Family-friendly games
• A decorated boat contest
• A rubber duck hunt
• Activities for all ages

Check out LAST YEARS promo video below. Remember that this video has last year's date! The 2026 Promo Video has not yet been released on YouTube. FLOATZILLA 2026 IS AUGUST 15.

One of the coolest parts of Floatzilla is that the Mississippi River is temporarily closed to commercial barge traffic during the event, giving paddlers a rare opportunity to safely enjoy one of America's greatest rivers from a whole new perspective. Safety boats patrol the route throughout the day, and every participant is required to wear a life jacket.

Don't Have a Kayak?

No problem. Participants are welcome to bring their own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, but rental options are available through local outfitters. Registration also includes a Floatzilla T-shirt, commemorative boat sticker, shuttle transportation, and free parking.

Register Early

Floatzilla is expected to draw more than 1,200 paddlers from across the Midwest. Early registration discounts are currently available, and those who register by July 12 will also be entered for a chance to win a prize.

For more information or to register, visit Floatzilla's official website.