Riverhead Cardboard Boat Race

🚣 Saturday, August 1, 2026
📍 Peconic Riverfront | Downtown Riverhead, NY

The Riverhead Cardboard Boat Race is one of Downtown Riverhead’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together thousands of spectators to cheer on teams racing homemade cardboard boats across the Peconic River.

This exciting waterfront festival combines creativity, competition, engineering, and family fun into a one-of-a-kind community experience that attracts visitors from across Long Island.

New for 2026, the event is expanding into an even bigger destination with the addition of a Family Fun Zone and Waterfront Vendor Marketplace located adjacent to the boat launch in the Peconic Riverfront parking area.

Guests won’t simply watch the races. They’ll spend the day shopping local, enjoying interactive attractions, games, activities, food vendors, live entertainment, community organizations, and family-friendly experiences while taking in everything Downtown Riverhead has to offer.

Whether you’re cheering on your favorite cardboard boat, exploring the vendor marketplace, enjoying delicious food, or making memories with the family, there’s something for everyone at this exciting summer tradition.

Event Features

• 🚣 Cardboard Boat Races

• 🛍 Artisan Vendor Marketplace

• 🥨 Snack Vendors

• 🎶 Live Entertainment

• 🎈 Family Fun Zone

• 🎯 Interactive Activities & Games

• 🤝 Community Organizations

• 🌊 Beautiful Peconic Riverfront Setting

Admission is free for spectators, making this the perfect summer outing for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.

Vendor Opportunities

Interested in becoming a vendor?

Applications are currently being accepted for artisan vendors, specialty retail vendors, food vendors, snack vendors, promotional vendors, and community organizations.

Vendor spaces are limited and accepted on a first-approved basis. Certain categories may close as applications are received to ensure a diverse shopping experience.

👉 Vendor applications are available now. Apply early to secure your space.