Tulsa's Great Raft Race to Return in 2024

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After teasing Facebook followers with updated profile and cover photos last week, the Great Raft Race officially announced its return at a press conference Monday afternoon at the Gathering Place.

“Tulsa’s Great Raft Race is making a triumphant return for 2024, alongside the grand opening of Zink Lake during the Big Dam Party,” says a press release also issued Monday.

“After four years of anticipation and construction, Tulsans will finally celebrate the unveiling of Zink Lake with a spectacular four-day event from August 30 to September 2, 2024. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of a collective vision to enhance riverfront development and provide unprecedented recreational opportunities right here in our backyard.”

“We are proud to partner with Tulsa Regional Tourism, Gathering Place, River Parks Authority, and Tulsa’s Young Professionals (TYPros) to announce the Big Dam Party, an amazing celebration featuring rowing regattas, live music, flume competitions, and the iconic return of Tulsa’s Great Raft Race.”

“Since its inception in 1973, the Great Raft Race has been a symbol of community spirit and outdoor adventure. With your unwavering support, we revived this beloved event in 2015, and we're thrilled to bring it back once again as part of the Big Dam Party festivities.”

“We invite you to join us for the Big Dam Party and the long-awaited return of the Great Raft Race. Save the date, spread the word, and let’s make this Labor Day Weekend a celebration to remember! More details to come.”

The historic Great Tulsa Raft Race ran from 1973 to 1991 but was discontinued until a brief return from 2015 to 2019.

In 2020, however, it was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by cancelations in 2021 due to the construction of the new Gilcrease Turnpike bridge over the river, and organizational challenges the past two years.

While Tulsa gets its name in the event title, the event is also hosted by Sand Springs, with Case Community Park serving as the launch point for the rafts.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the event can learn more at this link.