Bradenton is all set to host the highly anticipated 10th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta this Saturday.

This exciting event, featuring powerboat racing, live music, and fun-filled family activities, is expected to draw massive crowds to the Riverwalk, downtown Bradenton, and Palmetto. However, with large-scale festivities come significant road closures, which could impact local traffic throughout the day.

Major Road Closures to Know

Local authorities have announced that several key roads and a major bridge will be closed to ensure the safety of attendees and participants. Road closures will begin as early as 4 a.m. on Saturday, with streets reopening only after the event concludes late that night.

Here’s a list of roads that will be off-limits during the event:

Green Bridge (US 41 Business Route) – The bridge will be completely closed to vehicles, electric bikes, and scooters. However, visitors can take advantage of a free trolley service running between Bradenton and Palmetto from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ninth Street West – Closed between Manatee Avenue and the Green Bridge.

12th Street West (Old Main Street) – Closed from Manatee Avenue to Barcarrota Boulevard.

10th Street West – Closed from the City Centre garage to the Riverwalk.

Third Avenue West – Open only for eastbound traffic between Ninth Street West and First Street/U.S. 41.

Drivers needing to travel between Bradenton and Palmetto are advised to use the DeSoto Bridge as an alternate route.

Where to Park?

To accommodate visitors, free parking will be available in designated city parking lots and garages. However, some locations will have restricted access:

The parking lot between City Centre Garage and City Hall will be closed.

VIP Parking at Rossi Park at the Riverwalk will be accessible only to those with a VIP permit.

Event Schedule & Attractions

The Bradenton Area River Regatta officially kicks off on Friday at 5:15 p.m. with a spectacular lineup of entertainment, including live music, a drone light show, and fireworks. The main events continue on Saturday at 10 a.m., featuring thrilling powerboat races, a stunt dog show, and other exciting attractions.

Visitors can expect a fun-filled weekend with plenty of entertainment for all ages. The Riverwalk and downtown Bradenton will transform into a vibrant festival zone, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Weather Forecast for the Weekend

Eventgoers can look forward to pleasant weather conditions, with highs in the lower 70s and lows in the upper 50s. This makes for perfect outdoor conditions to enjoy the regatta festivities.

Traffic & Travel Tips

With thousands of visitors expected, here are some travel tips to make your regatta experience smoother:

Arrive Early: Parking and road closures will make last-minute travel difficult.

Use the Free Trolley: Avoid traffic by using the complimentary trolley service between Bradenton and Palmetto.

Plan Alternate Routes: If you’re not attending the regatta, expect heavy congestion around downtown and consider using alternative roads to bypass closed streets.

Final Thoughts

The Bradenton Area River Regatta is set to be an unforgettable event, bringing excitement, entertainment, and community spirit to the region. However, it’s crucial for locals and visitors alike to be aware of the road closures and parking options to ensure a hassle-free experience.

With perfect weather, an exciting schedule, and smooth travel planning, the 10th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta promises to be one of the best yet!