- LECLAIRE, Iowa – The cities of LeClaire, Iowa and Port Byron, Illinois are preparing for their unique 3-day event that is unlike any festival in the USA. It’s called Tug Fest and runs August 11-13. This year, the Tug Fest was designated by Motel 6 as one of “America’s Top 6 Quirkiest Summer Festivals!” https://www.motel6.com/en/
promo/festivals.html
Tug Fest includes live bands, carnival rides, great food, a grand parade, 5K/1mile runs, the greatest fireworks spectacular in the two-state area, and much more! What makes Tug Fest truly unique is the fact that it is the only Tug-of-War event in the country that spans two states and crosses the Mississippi River. LeClaire, Iowa’s theme this year is “Pullin’ Back the 80s”, and the “Tug for a Cause” proceeds go to Hand-in-Hand.
On the August 13 from 12:30-2:30pm, barge traffic and pleasure boats will yield the right of way to a 2,400 foot long, 680 pound rope that stretches across the river between the two towns. Eleven teams from each side compete against each other trying to gain advantage by pulling in the most feet of rope within 3 minutes. The town with the most winning teams receives the coveted “Alabaster Eagle in Flight” trophy and bragging rights for that year.
This year’s festival kicks off on Thursday, August 11 with Family Night and free admission to the LeClaire Levee area. For $20 you can purchase a wristband for unlimited carnival rides that evening. Friday, August 12 is the grand parade and fireworks spectacular, and Saturday, August 13 is all about tugging. Illinois leads the competition with 18 winning years over Iowa’s 11. Even the kids can get involved in the tugging during the Children’s Tug – registration is at 10am; tug is at 11am. An Arm Wrestling Tournament is NEW this year at Tug Fest! Men, women, and kids can compete at 4pm on Saturday, August 13. Registration can be found online at www.tugfest.com Admission to the LeClaire Levee is $5 on Friday and Saturday. Children under 12 are free.
For more information and a complete Tug Fest schedule, please visit: www.tugfest.com
Situated at the intersection of I-80 and Hwy. 67 just north of the Quad Cities, LeClaire offers a complete shopping and dining experience. Relax along the scenic streets of this historic river town that exudes turn-of-the-century charm. LeClaire has great events including First Friday, weekly Farmer’s Market, car shows, and the Tug Fest in August. Attractions include the Buffalo Bill Museum, Antique Archaeology - “Home of the American Pickers”, Wide River Winery and The Mississippi River Distilling Co. Nature lovers enjoy the scenery at Lock and Dam #14 - bald eagles in the winter and pelicans during the spring and fall. For more information: www.visitleclaire.com
