Saturday, May 23, 2026

51st Bigfork Whitewater Festival

The 51st Annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival is a historic, high-energy Memorial Day weekend event in Bigfork, Montana, bringing together paddlers, spectators, and the local community for a celebration of whitewater culture. Centered on the iconic "Wild Mile" of the Swan River-a scenic and challenging Class IV stretch running through downtown-this three-day festival features thrilling kayak, rafting, and paddleboard races, along with live music, community events, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere. As one of the longest-running whitewater festivals in the country, it draws competitors from around the world while raising funds to support Montana Kayak Academy programming.

The 51st Annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival is a historic, high-energy Memorial Day weekend event in Bigfork, Montana, bringing together paddlers, spectators, and the local community for a celebration of whitewater culture. Centered on the iconic "Wild Mile" of the Swan River-a scenic and challenging Class IV stretch running through downtown-this three-day festival features thrilling kayak, rafting, and paddleboard races, along with live music, community events, and a vibrant downtown atmosphere. As one of the longest-running whitewater festivals in the country, it draws competitors from around the world while raising funds to support Montana Kayak Academy programming.

51st Bigfork Whitewater Festival
Image via Flathead Beacon

Source · Flathead Beacon