COLUMBUS — The inaugural Columbus Riverfest, presented by Cummins Inc., takes over Mill Race Park this Friday, July 31, bringing food trucks, entertainment, a beer garden, and an eccentric cardboard boat race—the “Ya Gotta Regatta”—to the park’s north lake.
Hosted by the United Way of Bartholomew County, the family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds from the festival directly support local initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and homelessness across the community.
Cardboard, Duct Tape, and Community Impact
The main attraction of Riverfest is the “Ya Gotta Regatta,” where more than 25 local teams, local businesses, and community organizations will set sail in handcrafted vessels constructed using only cardboard and duct tape.
“Food insecurity and housing instability are not distant problems—they are present right here in our community,” explained Magen Pillar, Director of Communications and Marketing for United Way of Bartholomew County. “This event brings people together to celebrate innovation while directly funding programs that help families achieve long-term stability.”
To enter, participating teams donated $500 to the nonprofit. The race features seven distinct challenge categories, rewarding teams for metrics such as speed, team spirit, structural creativity, and spectacular sinks.
How to Vote: People’s Choice Award
In addition to racing on the water, teams are competing for the coveted People’s Choice Award, determined through dollar-for-dollar community donations. Every dollar donated to a team counts as one vote toward their standing.
Community members can cast their votes and donate to their favorite boat teams online at uwbarthco.goodworldnow.com/p/riverfest.
Event Highlights & Vendor Lineup
Beyond the water races, Riverfest offers opportunities to engage directly with partner agencies supported by the United Way, giving attendees a firsthand look at local social services and youth development programs.
The festival will also feature local entertainment, interactive family activities, a beer garden hosted by Hog Molly Brewing Co., and a variety of regional food vendors, including:
- Covered Bridge BBQ
- Cookie Paradise
- D & D Lunchbox
- Dorothy’s Playhouse
- Miss Rachel’s Neat Treats
- Patriot Pizza
- Taqueria Ramirez
- The 250 Grill
Admission to Mill Race Park is free for all ages. For team rosters, event schedules, or to donate to the People’s Choice Award, visit www.uwbarthco.org.
