ROCK FALLS, ILLINOIS (August 4, 2026) — Rock Falls Tourism is excited to announce the inaugural Aqua Palooza, a new two-day, family-friendly summer celebration taking place August 15-16, 2026, throughout Rock Falls. Held in conjunction with the Rock Falls River Chase, the weekend will feature thrilling boat races, live music, fishing, a brand-new Cardboard Regatta, and family activities at multiple locations throughout the city.
The weekend's signature event, the Rock Falls River Chase, will take place Saturday and Sunday, 10:30AM-5:30PM, at Seward's Riverside Park, 606 E 2nd Street. Spectators can experience the excitement as powerboat racers reach speeds of up to eighty miles per hour on the Rock River. Food and beverage vendors will be available throughout the event.
Saturday morning begins with the Optimist Club Kids Fishing Derby at Centennial Park, 508 E 11th Street. Registration opens at 8AM at the Larson Shelter, with fishing taking place 9AM-12PM. The derby is open to children of all ages, and participation is free.
The fun continues Saturday evening at the RB&W District Park, 201 E 2nd Street, with a free concert featuring The Brotherhood Band. Known for their energetic performance of classic rock and metal favorites, the band will take the stage at 7:00 p.m. Food and beverage vendors will begin serving at 5PM.
Rock Falls Tourism is excited to introduce its first-ever Cardboard Regatta as part of Aqua Palooza on Sunday, August 16, at Centennial Park. This exciting new event invites teams to race homemade cardboard boats across the water in a fun-filled competition that is sure to entertain participants and spectators alike. Spectators can view the creative cardboard boat entries beginning at 11:30AM near the paddle boat docks before the races begin at 1PM. Teams will compete in homemade cardboard boats, providing plenty of laughs and friendly competition. Teams interested in participating in the Cardboard Regatta have until Monday, August 10, to register. The registration fee is $10 per team/boat. Registration forms for adults and minors, competition rules, and printable waivers are available at VisitRockFalls.com or at the Rock Falls Tourism Office.
The weekend concludes with the Sauk Valley Ski Shows Duck Race at Seward's Riverside Park.
Community members can purchase a duck for the race, with the winning duck receiving fifty percent of the proceeds. The remaining funds will benefit the Sauk Valley Water Ski Team as they continue to grow their program.
"We're excited to introduce Aqua Palooza as another opportunity for families and visitors to experience everything Rock Falls has to offer," said Melinda Jones, Director of Rock Falls Tourism.
"From high-speed boat-racing and live music to fishing, creative competitions, and family activities, Aqua Palooza offers something for everyone while showcasing our beautiful riverfront and community."
For a complete schedule of events, registration information, and additional details, visit VisitRockFalls.com or contact Rock Falls Tourism at 815-622-1106.
