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 60 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!
Admission Details
Tri-City Water Follies is a ticketed event with numerous admission options for a truly customized experience.
- 3-Day Admission & Pit Pass - $75
- 2-Day Weekender Adult (13+) - $60
- 1-Day Admission valid Saturday or Sunday Adult (ages 13+) - $30
- 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.
Event Schedule
- Friday - Featured programs include the Vintage Driving School, H1 Unlimited Hydroplane Qualifying, Parr Lumber E-350 Hydroplane Heat 1 and 2, and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Vintage Hydroplane Dash.
- 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 E-350 Hydroplane Final, Grand Prix America Thunder Cup, and Tri-City Water Follies 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.
Event Experiences
Apollo Gold Cup
Watch as multiple Unlimited Hydroplanes zip across the water during the Gold 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 rooster tails.
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. Don't miss marveling at the USAF F-16 Viper Demo during the air show.
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.
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
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.
Accommodations
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.
