Historic Lake Redding Regatta Returns to Sacramento River Aug. 1-2
- Elisa Ballard
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
REDDING, Calif. — The Lake Redding Regatta returns to the Sacramento River on August 1-2, 2026, continuing the modern revival of a cherished North State tradition that once ranked among Redding’s premier summer celebrations.
The two-day event, hosted by Visit Redding in partnership with the Shasta Historical Society at Lake Redding Park (2225 Benton Drive), invites paddlers of all skill levels to compete in stand-up paddleboard (SUP), kayak, canoe, tandem, and crew boat races. Distances range from 1 to 4 miles, with both recreational and performance divisions. Age categories are 18–49 and 50 and older. Race registration is $35.
The original Lake Redding Regatta (sometimes called the Water Carnival) ran from 1933 to 1939 and drew crowds from across California and Oregon. Events included boat races, swimming and diving competitions, log rolling, beauty pageants, dancing, and even boxing matches at the Cascade Theater. Organizers repainted the dates each year on a pillar beneath the Diestelhorst Bridge—a historic marker that still inspires today’s revival. The tradition faded with dam construction on the river and the onset of World War II.
Visit Redding and partners revived the event in 2024 after an 85-year hiatus, shifting the focus to modern paddle sports while preserving the original community spirit. Co-directors in prior years included Danny Orloff of Visit Redding and Tiffney Ottoboni.
2026 Schedule:
Saturday, August 1 (5–9 p.m.)
Sunday, August 2 (9 a.m.–3 p.m.)
All participants must wear Coast Guard-approved life jackets and attend a mandatory safety briefing.
Beyond the races, the weekend features live music and local vendors, a classic car show, a wellness zone, kayak demos, food trucks, and family-friendly activities along the riverfront. Spectators are welcome and encouraged to enjoy the riverside setting and historic park amenities, including the old concrete bleachers.
The event celebrates Redding’s connection to the Sacramento River and builds on the success of the 2024 and 2025 revivals, which drew growing numbers of competitors and spectators. Organizers describe it as a family-focused celebration of outdoor recreation and local history.
The event sponsors include 2 Guys and a Grill, Izzi Law Office, Headwaters Kayak, Fall River Brewing Co., Lion's Club, City of Redding, Revive Cold Plunge & Sauna, Redding Cultural District, Active Physical Therapy, Redding Chamber of Commerce, Zach Bay State Farm Insurance, and Highway Specialty Co.
For the latest details, registration, and updates, visit:
