Oklahoma Regatta Festival lights up the Oklahoma River

The Oklahoma Regatta Festival returned October 3–5, bringing thousands of spectators to the Boathouse District for one of Oklahoma City’s premier fall traditions. 

The three-day event featured high-energy racing and community celebrations, starting Friday night with the OG&E NightSprints, where rowing and dragon boat teams raced under stadium lights. The evening also included the OG&E ThunderBolt and Watts Challenge, capped off by a spectacular fireworks show. 

Among the competitors was the Greater OKC Chamber’s Adult Rowing League co-ed novice team, which celebrated a big win by taking first place in their 500-meter heat with a time of 2:06:424. The race marked an exciting milestone for the Chamber’s team, which has been training on the Oklahoma River throughout the season. 

Saturday morning was filled with the OCU Head of the Oklahoma, a signature head race drawing collegiate, master and junior crews to the Oklahoma River. Crowds returned in the evening for another round of NightSprints and fireworks. 

The festival concluded Sunday with the final heats of the Head of the Oklahoma, sending athletes sprinting toward the finish line to cheers from the riverbanks. 

Beyond the racing, community partners hosted hospitality events with food, drinks and prime viewing at the Devon Boathouse. Families and fans lined the river for food trucks, live entertainment and the glow of light-up costumes that have become a hallmark of the weekend. 

Thanks to support from OG&E, UCO and more than 30 community partners, the Regatta Festival once again highlighted the energy, teamwork and spirit that make OKC’s riverfront a destination for adventure and competition.