The Bradenton Area River Regatta is back for its 10th anniversary, bringing a weekend of high-speed racing, live music, and family-friendly fun to the Manatee River! Mark your calendars for February 21-22, 2025, and get ready for one of the biggest events of the year. Here's what you can expect during this FREE event.
Powerboat Superleague Racing
Watch as top racers hit speeds of over 120 MPH, as they battle for victory in one of the most thrilling spectacles on the water. This year's races are fueled by the fastest inland boats on water and the largest tunnel boat race on tour -- Powerboat Superleague Formula-2.
A second powerboat class, SST-45, often called "Formula Lights" returns to rumble on the river.
They're small, fast, and dart with razor-sharp precision, making this an exciting spectacle to watch.
All of the races will take place on Saturday, with test runs starting at 10 am and races continuing throughout the day.
Live Music & Entertainment
Enjoy performances from national acts and local favorites on multiple stages in Bradenton and Palmetto. The lineup includes Sam Woolf, Bella Garland, House of Harmony, Sweet Fleet, Peonies, and more!
Opening night kicks off at 5:15 pm on the Bradenton Riverwalk Rossi Park Stage and features Abba Nova, Bella Garland Band, and Sweet Fleet (a National Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band). On Saturday, you'll find exciting musical performances on both the Bradenton Riverwalk and the Palmetto Riverside Park Stage. View the full music lineup.
Sky Elements Drone & Fireworks Show
While the boat races might be the star attraction, you won't want to miss out on the spectacular Friday Night Flash show, featuring an intricately choreographed drone performance by Sky Elements, capped off with fireworks by Zambelli Internationale. The show kicks off around 7:15 pm on Friday.
All-Day Entertainment
There are so many things to do all day on Saturday, you'll truly find something for everyone. Here's what's happening on the Bradenton side:
Pittsburgh Pirates/Bradenton Marauders Family Fun Zone & Food Festival
The "Moogician" Variety Show
Stunt Dog Shows
Frisbee Dog Shows
Kristen Smoyer, Flyboard Champion
On the Palmetto side, you'll find:
Vintage Powerboat Exhibit
Tampa Bay Bucs Fan Street Team
Tampa Bay Lightning Rolling Thunder
U.S. Army & U.S. National Guard "Family Fun Zone"
Food Festival & Kids Rides
Lil' Anglers Fishing Derby
The Hernando De Soto Society Lil' Anglers Fishing Derby takes place on the Palmetto Green Bridge Fishing Pier, and will run from 8:30 AM until 10:00 AM, check-in is at 8 AM. The derby is FREE but limited to the first 100 anglers who are between the ages of 5 and 12 years old. There will be rigged rods, prizes, and trophies! Pre-registration is required and this will fill up fast. SIGN UP HERE.
LECOM 5K Run the Riverwalk
Start the weekend off right by participating in the LECOM 5K Run the Riverwalk on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 AM. This scenic race takes runners across the Green Bridge and along the beautiful Manatee River.
Open to runners of all skill levels, this event is a perfect way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning waterfront views. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up early to secure your spot!
Plan Your Visit
The Bradenton Riverwalk and Riverside Park in Palmetto will be packed with activities. A free trolley will be running across the Green Bridge all day Saturday to make getting around easy.
Best Viewing Spots: The Green Bridge offers unbeatable views of the powerboat races, while the Riverwalk Splash Park is the prime location for the drone and fireworks show. Be sure to check out both sides of the river for unique entertainment and food vendors.
Parking & Transportation: There will be ample parking in both Bradenton and Palmetto. Be sure to check the event website for parking maps and shuttle details.
For a full event schedule and more details, visit BradentonAreaRegatta.com.
POPULAR EVENTS
