SARANAC LAKE — Play ADK will host the 2025 Saranac Lake Corrugated Cup Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, Aug. 30, at Riverfront Park in Saranac Lake.
This family-friendly fundraiser promises a day of creative fun and friendly competition.
“We are so excited to take on hosting the Annual Cardboard Boat Race this year. This event is an iconic Saranac Lake tradition, and it perfectly aligns with Play ADK’s values of fostering play, creativity and building community. We can’t wait to see the boats that racers design and look forward to growing this into a fun, annual fundraiser that directly supports our Clubhouse and community programs,” Rob Carr, founder and executive director, said.
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., participants can register to race and build their own boats with supplies provided at the park. For those who pre-build their boats, lineup begins promptly at 2 p.m.
At this time, the public will be invited to cast their votes for the People’s Choice award for the best-designed boat. The races will start at 3 p.m., with contestants paddling a short, marked loop on Lake Flower. An awards ceremony will follow once all the races are complete, according to a press release.
The cost to race is a suggested donation of $25-$50 per boat with all proceeds supporting Play ADK’s Clubhouse and community programming. Register, view the race rules and get building tips at playadk.org/cardboard.
As part of Celebrate Paddling in Saranac Lake, this event is co-hosted by local outfitters, paddling organizations and guides including Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters, the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Guide ADK and St. Regis Canoe Outfitters, all of which will help the event run smoothly and provide race winners with awesome schwag.
Duff’s Dumpsters provides cardboard, a dumpster for clean up and additional event support. Nori’s Village Market has generously donated gift cards for race winners.