There are few events that capture the spirit of Huntsville quite like the Rotary NyDock Dockfest.
On Saturday, July 11, head to Huntsville’s downtown waterfront for a full day of excitement, community celebration and high-speed bathtub racing—all while raising money for a cause that will benefit generations to come.
Now firmly established as one of Muskoka’s signature summer events, Rotary NyDock Dockfest is much more than a quirky race across the Muskoka River in bathtubs. It is the result of months of planning and hundreds of volunteer hours donated by community members determined to make a difference.
At the heart of the event is a unique partnership between the Huntsville Rotary Club and NyDock, a division of Pipefusion Services Inc. Together, the organizations plan, organize, fundraise, host and execute every aspect of Dockfest from beginning to end.
Leading that effort are Jan Nyquist, founder of NyDock, and Jamie Thompson of the Huntsville Rotary Club. Behind them is an army of Rotary volunteers and Pipefusion staff who donate countless hours to transform Huntsville’s waterfront into one of the most exciting family festivals of the summer.
“Dockfest simply wouldn’t happen without the incredible commitment of our volunteers, sponsors and community partners,” organizers say.
That commitment has paid off.
Each year, the event continues to grow, attracting thousands of visitors, including spectators, racers, volunteers, sponsors, elected officials and families from across Muskoka and beyond.
The festivities kick off at 10 a.m. with the ever-popular parade through downtown Huntsville.
Leading this year’s procession will be Dockfest’s newest ambassador—Tubby the Beaver, the brand-new Rotary NyDock mascot making his first official appearance.
Creative entries are encouraged, with a $500 prize awarded to the best-themed or best-decorated float.
Following the parade, opening ceremonies featuring local dignitaries begin at 11 a.m., before attention shifts to the main attraction—the legendary Bathtub Derby.
Motorized bathtubs, each representing local businesses and organizations, will navigate a challenging obstacle course on the Muskoka River in one of Canada’s most unique racing traditions.
Thrills on the water
Between race heats—and after the final bathtub crosses the finish line—the action continues.
The Muskoka Madmen, led by Captain Nick Musters, will perform an adrenaline-filled stand-up jet ski stunt show featuring gravity-defying tricks, flips and high-speed manoeuvres.
Later in the afternoon, Charlie Newlands of Summer Water Sports and his team of Canadian National Water Ski Team champions will take to the water with a professional waterski spectacular.
Audiences can expect barefoot skiing, towering pyramids, flyboarding, comedy acts and several surprise performances designed to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Family fun at Rivermill Park
While the races take place on the river, Rivermill Park will be buzzing with activity throughout the day.
Families can enjoy children’s games, face painting, cornhole, live music and a wide variety of food vendors.
New this year, Smokin Hot Barbeque joins the festivities not only as a bathtub racing team but also as the official licensed beverage provider in the park.
Whether visitors spend the day cheering from the shoreline or relaxing in the park, organizers promise there will be something for every age.
Racing for a remarkable cause
While Dockfest is known for fun and entertainment, its purpose reaches far beyond the finish line.
Organizers emphasize that 100 per cent of the funds raised go directly to charity.
This year, Rotary NyDock Dockfest has partnered with the Raise Muskoka campaign in support of the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. Funds raised will help build the new Huntsville Hospital, a transformational healthcare project designed to serve Muskoka for decades to come.
“It’s an opportunity for the entire community to celebrate together while investing in the future of local healthcare,” say organizers.
Whether you’re entering a bathtub, cheering from the shoreline or simply enjoying a summer day downtown, every participant helps move that goal forward.
Event Schedule
- Parade – 10:00 a.m.
- Opening Ceremonies – 11:00 a.m.
- Bathtub Derby – Immediately following ceremonies
- Jet Ski Stunt Show – Between race heats and after racing
- Professional Water Ski Show – Afternoon
- Family activities at Rivermill Park throughout the day
For the complete event schedule, race information and sponsorship details, visit:
Rotary NyDock Dockfest website
To support this year’s charitable initiative benefitting the new Huntsville hospital through the Raise Muskoka campaign, donate here: Raise Muskoka donation page
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