Things to Do
The confluence of the Snake, Yakima and Columbia Rivers has produced an aquatic playground second to none.
Water Follies Apollo Columbia Cup & STCU Over the River Air Show
Celebrate summer with exhilarating hydroplane races on the Columbia River at the Tri-City Water Follies.
Thrilling the community for over 55 years, the Water Follies Apollo Columbia Cup and STCU Over-the-River Air Show hosts a variety of exciting hydroplane races for a weekend of summer fun. Watch the hydroplane races, enjoy an air show, meet hydroplane drivers, explore vendor booths, and have endless fun along the Columbia River at this family-friendly event!
Event Experiences:
Columbia Cup
Watch as multiple Unlimited Hydroplanes zip across the water during the Columbia Cup. Marvel as the boats reach speeds of close to 200 miles per hour on straightaways and cheer as they navigate around the other hydroplane’s roostertails.
Schedule:
- Friday - Featured programs include the Vintage Driving School, H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Qualifying, Vintage Hydroplane Dash, and the Grand Prix America Heat 1.
- Saturday - Don't miss exciting activities such as the Atomic Screen Printing Driver Autograph Session and the STCU Over-the-River Air Show.
- Sunday - Enjoy watching three final races, including the 2.5 litre Stock Hydro Final, Grand Prix America Thunder Cup, and the H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Apollo Columbia Cup.
The winner will take home the Columbia Cup as well as the coveted parking spot under Bernie Little’s famous tree for the following year’s race. For more information about the event schedule, visit the official website of the Water Follies Apollo Columbia Cup and STCU Over-the-River Air Show.
Over-the-River Air Show
Witness a culmination of over 40 years of demonstrations performed by dozens of pilots and teams at hundreds of air shows from around the world. Featured aircraft include the MX2 Aircraft, Harvard Mk4, and an A-37 Dragonfly. Don't miss the final season of the A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team.
Grand Prix America
Experience exhilarating automotive-powered hydroplane races during Grand Prix America. Watch competitors battle for lanes as drivers go full-throttle in two preliminary heats on Saturday, followed by another preliminary heat and a final heat on Sunday, all in front of a cheering crowd.
Meyers' Auto Tech Championship Series Radio-Controlled Hydros
Check out radio-controlled hydroplane replicas that are 1/8th in scale as they reach speeds exceeding 60mph. The race track can be found at the Family Fishing Pond in Columbia Park, and the races take place on both Friday and Saturday.
2.5-Liter Hydroplanes
The Tri-City Water Follies is delighted to announce that the Apollo Columbia Cup will welcome 2.5 litre class hydroplanes to its lineup of exciting racing on the Columbia River! This competition features incredibly fast boats that can reach remarkable speeds making it an exciting spectacle for attendees of all ages. 2.5 litre hydroplanes can reach high speeds, up to 100 mph!
Vintage Hydroplanes
Traverse across the Columbia River on vintage Unlimited Hydroplanes, taking a step back into the past of this event. Experience the thrilling boats that were victorious showstoppers from 1973 to 1981. Check back for more information about the ride fees.
Admission Details:
Tri-City Water Follies is a ticketed event with numerous admission options for a truly customized experience.
- 3-Day Admission & Pit Pass - $60
- 2-Day Weekender Adult (13+) - $50
- 1-Day Admission valid Saturday or Sunday (6-12) - $10
- Single Day Admission and Pit Passes Available
In addition to these general admission tickets, attendees can purchase tickets to special areas, including the Hydro Hot Spot and Bulldog Beach Club, and premium parking options. Purchase tickets here.
Accommodations
Tri-Cities offers a wide range of accommodations conveniently located near Water Follies, popular restaurants and wineries, and other exciting activities. Book your stay at a local hotel, vacation rental, or setup camp at an RV Park.
