REVIVING THE LAKE REDDING REGATTA: A RACE TO BRING BACK THE PAST
Redding is making waves this summer as we revive a cherished local tradition – the Lake Redding Regatta! SIGN-UP HERE
Circle August 16-17, 2025, on your calendars for a fun day of kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding on the Sacramento River. This iconic event promises to blend our city’s rich history with the enjoyment of modern paddle sports.
Lake Redding Regatta Grand Stands
Water Carnival Redding Regatta.
A Paddle Through Time: The Lake Redding Regatta’s Legacy
The Lake Redding Regatta once reigned as Redding’s premier summer attraction. From 1933 to 1939, this annual spectacle drew crowds from across California and Oregon. Each year, the dates for the two-day event would be repainted beneath the Diestelhorst Bridge.
Redding Regatta Sacramento River Race
In 1933, the newspaper reported a “Throng at Water Meet,” with swimming and diving events, outboard motor races, dancing, wrestling, baseball, and live bands playing for the evening dance.
The Searchlight 07/13/1939
To promote the event as a tourist destination, Mayor E.H. Lowden issued a proclamation in 1933 urging the citizens to “…extend in every way possible the spirit of hospitality and friendliness to our visitors.”
Participants in the races came from all over California and Oregon. In 1933, the prize money for boat races was $400, and in 1939, it was $600.
Prize categories included three classes: Hydroplanes, Service Runabouts, and Racing Runabouts.
This annual regatta event stopped because of dam construction and World War II.
In 1949, the 20-30 Club and the Junior Chamber hosted a Racing Regatta for boats only, as the water was too cold for swimmers after dam construction. This continued into the 1950s.
Here’s a fascinating tidbit for history buffs and paddlers: Look up as you glide under the Diestelhorst Bridge. You’ll spot the faded, original painted sign for the Lake Redding Regatta – a visible link to our community’s recreational past!
Why We’ve Switched Gears: Swimming to Paddling
The construction of Shasta Dam in the late 1930s transformed our river’s character. Post-dam, the Sacramento River’s temperature dropped significantly, making it too cold for comfortable swimming. However, these cooler waters create perfect conditions for an invigorating paddle race!
For more details on the Sacramento River’s unique characteristics, check out our blog post: Sacramento River Flows in Redding: A Guide to Fishing and Water Activities
Lake Redding Regatta Ad
2025 Lake Redding Regatta: A Modern Paddle Sports Celebration
While the original event featured various water activities, our 2025 revival focuses exclusively on kayaking and SUP races.
LAKE REDDING REGATTA EVENT INFO
Our reimagined regatta will feature:
- Kayak races for various skill levels
- SUP competitions
- Riverside picnic areas for spectators
- Local food vendors
- Live music
- River safety clinics with Headwaters Adventure Co.
Safety remains our top priority!
All participants must wear appropriate personal flotation devices (PFDs) and follow river safety guidelines.
Join the Paddle Party!
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious newcomer, the new Lake Redding Regatta offers a unique opportunity to connect with our community’s history while enjoying the beautiful Sacramento River.
As we dip our paddles into this revived tradition, we’re not just celebrating our past – we’re creating new memories and traditions for future generations. So grab your kayak or SUP and join us on August 25, 2024, to be part of Redding’s evolving river legacy!
We can’t wait to see you at the regatta! Remember to look underneath the Diestelhorst Bridge for a glimpse of history as you paddle by. REGISTER HERE
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