12th Annual Cardboard Boat Race To Splash Off Soon In Riverhead

RIVERHEAD, NY — A popular event is ready to set sail again this year in Riverhead as the 12th Annual Cardboard Boat Race unfolds Saturday.

According to the Riverhead Chamber of Commerce, the event is scheduled for August 7 on the Peconic Riverfront in downtown Riverhead from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with registration inspection beginning at 9 a.m.

All registration must take place in advance online. For additional information, click here.

The popular event draws crowds to the Peconic waterfront, cheering as spirited contestants of all ages hop into vessels constructed with cardboard, duct tape — and a boatload of creativity.

Every year, spectators offer cheers of encouragement and good-natured laughter as some of the boats prove a bit less than seaworthy, sending their stalwart crews splashing happily into the Peconic River.

Families, friends, young and old participate in the event, spending months creating their cardboard boats, and then enjoying a day on the water, as well as music, face painting, and food.

The event is hosted by the Riverhead Chamber of Commerce; divisions include youth, single riders, groups, and outlaw races.

The Battle of the Town Supervisors is a crowd favorite; in 2019, then-Riverhead Town Supervisor Laura Jens-Smith vied against Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman.

Prizes are traditionally awarded in multiple categories including Titanic Sinking!, based on the fun involved when participants take a plunge into the Peconic as their cardboard boats capsize, organizers said.

"In addition to cardboard, duct tape and paint . . .creativity, a sense of humor and adventure are all that is required. There are four race divisions and an opportunity to race again if a craft remains unsunk," organizers said.

Winners will be announced in each of the divisions. As per tradition, special awards will be given out to Best Spirit; Titanic Sinking; People's Choice; Best Constructed (no tubes); Best Captain; Most Creative and Commander's Choice, organizers said.