River Alliance of Wisconsin welcomes boaters to return to Madison’s Yahara River for the Fools’ Flotilla on June 14. The free community event is a part of the annual Marquette Neighborhood Association’s Waterfront Festival. The floating parade will include live music and costumes are encouraged. The gathering begins on the Tenney Park end of the Yahara River at 9:30 a.m. and the parade launches at 10:30 a.m.

“What began as a playful way for neighbors to float to the Waterfront Festival has become a beloved Madison tradition,” said River Alliance of Wisconsin Executive Director Allison Werner. “We keep it going because we think it’s as important to enjoy the river as it is to work to protect it.” 

Fools’ Flotilla invites those with canoes, kayaks, or creative and sturdy floats to join a parade from Tenney Park Locks to Yahara Place Park. Costumes for people, pets, and boats are encouraged and celebrated. Boats may be registered online in advance to receive logistics emails.

Visit our FAQ page for maps and complete details.

NOTE: due to a new housing development in the Tenney Park neighborhood, parking near the park will be sharply limited. Those participating by boat are encouraged to put in at Yahara Place Park on Lake Monona, paddle up river to join us by 10:30 a.m., and float back towards Lake Monona. 

The Marquette Neighborhood Association’s Waterfront Festival will celebrate its 37th year of live music, family-friendly events, an array of vendors from local businesses, artists, restaurants, and craft beer and wine tents. 

Local businesses are invited to sponsor this high-visibility Fools’ Flotilla event. Contact Development Director Evan Arnold at earnold@wisconsinrivers.org.

Invite your friends via Facebook.

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