Frequently Asked Questions
Q? What is the date for the 2018 Rock River Anything that Floats Race?
A. The date for the Rock River Anything that Floats Race will be held on Sunday, August 12, 2018 with a rain date held for August 19.
Q? Can I bring my own boat to RRATFR?
A. Yes, but you must stay in the designated area for boat traffic during the race.
Q? When does each competition begin?
A. The start times for the 2018 Rock River Anything that Floats Race will be set soon! Be sure to check the site or our social media pages for updates.
Q? Ticket Information
A. There are no tickets for this event, but in order to continue this fine event another year, and to help with the charities we support at RRATFR, including the Fourth of July Fireworks Committee, Ski Broncs, and Rock River Trail, donations are welcome. Donation locations will be available at the event and you may call the Prairie Street Brewhouse if you would like to donate in advance.
Q? I’m a vendor interested in displaying at RRATF. Who can I contact for more information?
A. The contact for both display and food vendors is Cathy McDermott – for contact information, please visit our VENDOR page on the website.
Q? I would like to be a volunteer at RRATFR this year. Where can I sign-up?
A. Please visit our VOLUNTEER page on the RRATFR website.
Q? Can I bring beer, soda, or food into the RRATFR grounds?
A. Yes, the race takes place on public property and will allow food and drink. Any alcoholic beverages are not allowed on Park District property, but will be available at the Prairie Street Brewhouse at the end of the race course. See Map. In addition, there will be multiple vendors along the course selling food and drink during the race.
Q? Can I drink alcohol on the raft?
A. No containers will be allowed on the raft in order to keep our river clean.
Q? Are cameras allowed?
A. Yes. We encourage you to bring your camera. We also encourage you to take lots of pictures and post them on social media. Our social media outlets include Facebook, Twitter (@RockRiverATFR), and Instagram (@rockriveratfr) and use the hashtag #RRATFR.
We also welcome your amateur photos to help promote the event next year. Please email any great photos of your raft, or pictures you take during the race to amandala@gorockford.com.
Q? What should I bring?
A. Some items to consider bringing to the race include a chair in a bag, binoculars, camera, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, backpack/bag, insect repellant, and a fun attitude.
Q? Will an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) be available?
A. There will be an ATM available on both the main floor and lower level of the Prairie Street Brewhouse.
Q? I am Handicapped. Where can I park?
A. Parking for handicapped patrons can be found in the Rockford Park District Lot of the Riverview Ice House, YMCA Parking Lot, and the Prairie Street Brewhouse Parking Lot.
Q? Will there be a VIP area where I can spend a little money to get shade, food, and drink?
A. Patrons interested in upgrading their experience can find a VIP Room located located in the Prairie Street Brewhouse. Look for details to released soon.
Q? Can I bring my pet?
A. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed.
Q? Will seating be provided?
A. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs. There will be no seating available along the course.
Q? Can my kids bring their bike or skateboard?
A. The event is located along the Rock River Bike Path. Although bicycles are allowed, the foot traffic from walking pedestrians may make it difficult to get through. Wagons and strollers are encouraged.
Q? Can I drive my own boat to the event?
A. Boaters are welcome to dock at the Prairie Street Brewhouse. The South two Docks are available for public boat parking. If parked here during the race, please do not come or go during the race for the safety of the rafts. Anyone wanting to be on the river during the races, will need to be in the designated location (see map). There will be a no-wake in effect during that race time. Call the Prairie Street Brewhouse at 815.277.9427 to make arrangements.
Q? Is tailgating allowed?
A. Tailgating will not be allowed on the grounds.
Q? Do I need an ID?
A. If you are planning on purchasing alcohol, and ID will be required.
Q? Is there First Aid?
A. There will be a “misting station” available to the public located on the bike path. Rockford Fire Department personnel will be located on the grounds to assist with any bumps, bruises, or more critical injuries. There will be medical personnel located at the beginning and end of the race as well as at Nicholas Conservatory. If there are any issues, please contact a volunteer in a designated colored shirt or the Rockford Park District Police for assistance.