2026 Milk Carton Boat Race

Photo courtesy of the Royal Rosarians

Will it float? See who creates the most buoyant and swiftest homemade vessel at the 2026 Milk Carton Boat Race.

The annual event is hosted by the Royal Rosarians. You may recognize our city’s official greeters and goodwill ambassadors from the Portland Rose Festival. The family-friendly event invites everyone to come out for a day of friendly competition at Westmoreland Park.

Here are the details of the 2026 event.

The Milk Carton Boat Race starts is on Sunday, June 28, 2026, and is free to attend. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment and some spirited competition as kids and adults race and show off human-powered boats.

The event features multiple categories for kids and adults. Each team constructs a unique floating vessel from recycled milk cartons and jugs.

Participants will compete for awards in multiple racing classes. The most creatively-constructed watercraft will compete for the coveted People’s Choice Award milk can trophy.

Schedule of Events

10 a.m. Event open to the public. Arrive early to secure a viewing spot and check out competing boats.

11:45 a.m. Opening Ceremony

12 p.m. Race Start

Adult Single-rider (Race 1)
Child Single-rider (Race 2)
Young Adult Single-rider (Race 3)
Adult (2 riders) (Race 4)
Child (2 riders) (Race 5)
Young Adult (2 riders) (Race 6)
Mixed-age (2-4 riders) (Race 7)
Child (3-4 riders) (Race 8)
Young Adults (3-4 riders) (Race 9)
Mixed-age (3-4 riders) (Race 10)
Final Races (if needed)
People’s Choice Parade featuring all boats.

2:30 p.m. Awards Ceremony

The Milk Carton Boat Race takes place at Westmoreland Park casting pond, SE McLoughlin Blvd and Bybee Blvd in Portland. For more information, visit the Royal Rosarians’ website.

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