Historic downtown Bonita Springs is bringing a beloved community tradition back to life as Bonita Riverfest returns August 1, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  with a full day of river competitions, live entertainment, local businesses and family-friendly activities celebrating the city’s signature waterway.

Grumpy Goat Coffee is a sponsor of the 2026 Bonita Riverfest.

Organized by the Bonita Springs Downtown Alliance and a coalition of downtown businesses and community partners, Bonita Riverfest invites paddlers, spectators and supporters from across Southwest Florida to gather along the Imperial River for a celebration that showcases Bonita Springs’ history, natural beauty and vibrant downtown district.

A portion of event proceeds will benefit the Bonita Estero Rail Trail (BERT), helping support the future of connectivity and outdoor recreation in our community.

Registration is now open for competitors wishing to participate in the festival’s Imperial River canoe, kayak, and paddle board and build your own vessel races along the river.

In addition, all family members can enter the rubber duck races. Heaven Scent Flowers in historic downtown Bonita Springs is pre-selling ducks for the Riverfest duck race.

Stop in or call Heaven Scent at (239) 992-5683 to reserve a winning duck. Duck race entrants need not be present to win.

Follow Bonita Riverfest on social media channels:

Facebook: @BonitaSpringsRiverFest
Instagram: @BonitaSpringsRiverFest

“Bonita Riverfest is more than a day on the water,  it’s a celebration of our community, our local businesses and the Imperial River that helped shape the history of Bonita Springs,” organizers said.

“Whether you’re a seasoned paddler, a weekend warrior, or just want to see if your homemade floating masterpiece can survive the course, there’s a race for everyone!”

In addition to the races, attendees can enjoy live entertainment, food, shopping, activities and opportunities to explore the unique businesses that make historic downtown Bonita Springs a destination.

Businesses interested in increasing their visibility during one of downtown’s signature events are invited to become event sponsors or vendors. Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available, providing organizations with exposure before, during and after the festival while supporting a community-driven event designed to attract visitors from throughout Southwest Florida.

Race registration, sponsorship opportunities, vendor information and event updates are available at www.RiverfestBonita.com.