River Activities
The soul of the River Festival is the huge range of entertainment and activities taking place that truly bring the River Great Ouse to life, and commemorate the opening of the river from Bedford to the Wash in Norfolk in 1978. Whether you want to see the traditional boat parades, the dragon boat & raft races, or the daring stunts in the Water Sports arena, there is plenty to keep the family entertained right across the festival weekend. These activities take place along the entire length of the Festival site, from St Mary’s Gardens to the Sports Island , so there will always be something to see on the water wherever you are. This year’s river activities are kindly sponsored by Baker Brothers.
The cruiser and narrowboat enthusiasts who attend provide the centrepiece to the weekend’s celebrations, with many taking part in the Grand Parade of Cabin Cruisers and Grand Parade of Narrowboats which take place on both Saturday and Sunday. The Saturday night finale will be the fantastic illuminated boat parade.
Beds Fire Service will be providing some water rescue demonstrations near town bridge, and make sure to keep an eye out for the always amazing Jet Boots Bob.
Working with Sue Ryder, The dragon boat races take place on Saturday 20th July and the raft races, organised by the Rotary Club of Bedford Park, take place on Sunday 21st July. This year the raft crews will be raising money to support local charities and projects in Bedford – be sure to cheer them on as they compete!
Don’t forget you can get involved in the raft races, dragon boat races and various activities in the Water Sports arena!
The Water Sports arena, run by Canoe Trail , is right next to the Sports Island, where you can see daring canoe ramp demonstrations and take part in fun water-based activities such as zorbing, canoe polo, SUP obstacle course, GB Rafting and cardboard box racing.
Schedule of Events
Schedule of Events
The 2024 River Festival will include countless river activities, eight live music and performance areas, the Sports Island, Family Island, Green Earth Village, the wonderful offerings of the Festival Market, Bedford Festival of Motoring, plus so much more!
Make sure you keep the 20th & 21st July 2024 free in your diaries so that you don’t miss out on any of the action.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for on this web site, please contact the Events Team at events@bedford.gov.uk to discuss how you can get involved.
Gallagher Developments is a strategic land promoter with experience dating back over 50 years and, as a master developer, has delivered thousands of homes, employment land, schools, and community facilities across Bedfordshire. Gallagher Developments continue to work to deliver sustainable communities across Bedford Borough in order to provide much needed homes and wider communities.
Sir Tony Gallagher, Chairman of Gallagher Developments said, “We are delighted to again sponsor and support the Bedford River Festival which we know brings joy to thousands of people. We hope everyone has a great time”.
