LECLAIRE, IOWA (August 9, 2026) — Get ready for one of the most unique summer festivals in the country as LeClaire, Iowa, and Port Byron, Illinois, gear up for the 39th annual Tug Fest, August 13-15, 2026. This three-day celebration blends small-town charm with big-time fun — including carnival rides, live entertainment, a grand parade, fireworks, and the only inter-state Tug-of-War competition over the Mississippi River.
One-of-a-Kind Tug-of-War Across the Mississippi
Tug Fest’s crown jewel is a one-of-a-kind Tug-of-War between Iowa and Illinois — the only event in the nation to close the Mississippi River for a competition. On Saturday, August 15, 11:30AM–3PM, a 2,700-foot, 680-pound rope will stretch across the river as eleven teams from each state battle to pull the most feet of rope within three minutes. The winning side claims the coveted Alabaster Eagle trophy — and year-long bragging rights.
Full Weekend of Festivities
This year’s festival theme is “Greatest Pull on Earth” (a circus theme).
Thursday, August 13 — Family Night
- FREE admission for all
- $30 Wristband Night for Carnival
- Live entertainment by Press Record
- Bags Tournament
Friday, August 14
- Grand Parade at 6PM (NEW parade route!)
- Fireworks spectacular at 9:30PM
- Live music by Dirt Road Rockers at 8PM
Saturday, August 15 — Tug Day
- BIG Tug across the Mississippi at Noon
- Children’s tug at 3:30PM
- Bags Tournament at 4:30PM
- Live performances by:
- Mommy’s Little Monster at 5PM
- Breakfast Club at 8:45PM
Admission, Friday and Saturday:
Thursday night is FREE admission for all.
Friday-Saturday:
Adult (age seventeen-plus) $10
Youth (age ten through sixteen) $5
Nine and under is FREE all weekend
$15 weekend wristbands (for Friday and Saturday — save $5) available at Jones St entrance only. Credit Cards are accepted at the Jones St entrance.
Learn more and see the full event schedule at: www.tugfest.com
