The popular Cardboard Boat Race is returning to Orillia during the upcoming Waterfront Festival.
The Waterfront Festival, organized by the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce, will take place Aug. 9 to 11 at the Port of Orillia and Centennial Park.
The Cardboard Boat Race will begin at 12 p.m. Aug. 11. The race area will be east of Terry Fox Circle, near the federal dock.
“The race has long been one of the most popular components of the Waterfront Festival. It is a chance for Orillians of all ages to put their design and nautical skills to the test, building boats out of cardboard and racing them in Lake Couchiching,” the chamber said in a news release.
The race is also open to visitors, not only residents. There is no fee to take part, but registration is required. Details about race rules and registration can be found here.
“A cardboard boat does not require expensive materials or advanced skills to build. With some planning, determination, and effort, almost anyone can do it, and it can be a great family or team-building activity,” the release stated. “Creative design themes are encouraged, and participants can dress the part for a chance at the title of Best Costumed Crew.”
Local resident Evan Devine, who has built many memorable cardboard boats for the race over the years, has created a YouTube video to help beginners. The video can be viewed here.
The Waterfront Festival will also include in-water boat displays, live entertainment, a beer garden, a vendor market, and the Dock Diving Dog Contest.
More information about the Waterfront Festival can be found at orillia.com.
