The Great Raft Race Is Coming To Oklahoma….And You Won’t Want To Miss It

From 1973-1991, The Great Raft Race in Tulsa was a thriving event. Every Labor Day, hundreds of rafters and over a hundred thousand fans would gather at the Arkansas River for a day of boat racing, fun, laughter and excitement. However, due to certain circumstances, The Great Raft Race vanished for nearly 25 years, but made a return in 2015. This Labor Day, it is returning again on the Arkansas River and will be debuting over 200 rafts.

During its heyday, the event broke the state record for the largest single day event.

It had over 600 rafts, 4,500 racers and 150,000 cheering spectators.

Labor Day 2015 was the first event since 1991. The 2016 race will be timed and a winner will be picked for the best themed raft.

Over 200 rafts came out to participate in the 2015 race.

The creativity was incredible. Check out this raft titled, "Ships & Dip."

And the crazy VW Beetle from Tulsa Kayak.

All racers will start at Sand Springs River City Park.

And float 8 miles down the river to the finish line at River West Festival Park.

So go get those canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, inflatable rafts or pretty much anything that floats ready, and come on out on September 5th, 2016 for a day of excitement.

If you are interested in competing, the deadline for registration in August 20, 2016. You can find more information about the Great Raft Race here.

Oklahoma is full of outdoor activities and fun things to do. If you enjoy fishing, check out these 11 fishing spots in Oklahoma to cast your line.