The Big Float X at Waterfront Park

Photo courtesy of Human Access Project

Bring your favorite floatie to the 10th and final year of The Big Float at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

The Big Float is a celebration of the Willamette River.  The annual event benefits the Human Access Project, a local nonprofit that helps people connect with their river.

Here are the details about this year’s event.

The Big Float X at Tom McCall Waterfront Park

2022 was the final event. 

The Big Float X is Sunday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The parade, float and beach party stretches from the Hawthorne Bridge to the Marquam Bridge. 

The celebration starts with a parade. Head to the waterfront at 10 a.m. to inflate your inner tube, check in valuables and take a pre-dip in the river. The inner tube parade starts at 12:30 p.m. near the Hawthorne bridge and travels along Naito Parkway. You’ll stroll with your floaties down the Riverplace esplanade to Poet’s Beach under the Marquam Bridge where you’ll take to the water. 

Floaters then paddle out into the current and flow down the Willamette River to the South Hawthorne Waterfront Park. The river stage will provide music during your trip downriver.

Here’s the route: 

Photo courtesy of Human Access Project

At the south waterfront is a beach party featuring live music, beverages, nine food carts, and fun activities. Participants can win prizes for best costume and outlandish watercraft. 

Registration is $13 for adults and $6 for kids 18 and under when purchased online by July 7. Day-of admission is $15 for adults and $6 for kids 18 and under.

The event takes place at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. For more information and to register, visit The Big Float’s website.

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