Rally by the River Days Returns to Grand Rapids with a Packed Weekend of Fun

GRAND RAPIDS, OHIO — One of Northwest Ohio’s most charming small-town festivals is back and bigger than ever. Rally by the River Days returns to Grand Rapids July 11–13, bringing a weekend of music, food, parades, and quirky competitions along the scenic Maumee River.

Festivities begin Friday evening and continue through Sunday, highlighting local talent, community creativity, and just the right amount of silliness. Visitors can enjoy live music, street art, kids’ crafts, a wine pull, a duck-themed parade, the popular Cardboard Boat Regatta, and the town’s first Cornhole Tournament along the towpath.

Here’s the full weekend rundown:

FRIDAY, JULY 11
Rally Kickoff at Wright Pavilion (5:00–8:30PM)
Live music by Eric “Tater” Edwards
Street art by Toledo painter Teeth
Food from Fernando’s and Snyder’s
Drinks include Dougaritas, cold beer, and elderberry lemonade
Wine pull and mini disc golf challenge
Proceeds benefit the Grand Rapids Arts Council

“Once Upon a Mattress” Stage Production
7:00PM at the Historic Town Hall
Also showing Saturday at 7PM and Sunday at 2PM

SATURDAY, JULY 12
All Ducked Out Parade – 10:00AM
Open to all ages and vehicles—from bikes to floats.

Kids Rock Painting Craft – 11:00AM–2:00PM at Old Fire Station
Hosted by the Grand Rapids Arts Council. All supplies provided.

Buck-a-Duck Rubber Duck Race – 3:00PM at Town Hall Park Bridge
Adopt a duck for $1. Ten prizes awarded, including $300 grand prize.

Cornhole on the Towpath – 4:00PM and onward
Food and beer by Wildside Grand Rapids. Prizes for winners.

“Once Upon a Mattress” – 7:00PM at Town Hall

SUNDAY, JULY 13
Cardboard Boat Regatta – 1:00PM
Creative homemade boats race down the canal. Life jackets required.

Watermelon Eating Contest – 2:30PM at Wright Pavilion
Free to enter, open to all ages. Sponsored by Thurman’s Farmers Market and Angelwood Gallery.

Puppy Parade – 4:30PM
Starts at the park by Town Hall. Prizes awarded for categories like Best Dressed and Most Obedient.

Final performance of “Once Upon a Mattress” – 2:00PM at Town Hall

Throughout the weekend, enjoy additional attractions including Plein Air artists, local shops, food vendors, and a community photo contest. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite Grand Rapids photo for a chance to be featured in the 2026 Grand Rapids Calendar.

Full event details and registration forms are available at:
http://www.visitgrandrapidsohio.com/rally-by-the-river-days.html