RowFest 2026

July 11 – 19, 2026

Ford Lake Park, Ypsilanti, MI

Eastern Michigan University’s Innovative Ford Lake Course has been chosen to host the 2026 USRowing RowFest National Championships on July 11-19, 2026. RowFest brings together the rowing community for nine days of racing and celebration.

In partnership with Ann Arbor Sports Commission, Eastern Michigan University, and the Ypsilanti Charter Township, RowFest – one of the nation’s largest rowing community events – will see racing commence at Ford Lake, with community, learning and development, and social events hosted in the area.

RowFest 2026 will bring together the entire United States rowing community for flatwater racing and revelry. The regatta will include traditional racing formats for national championships for youth, under 17, under 23, open, and masters age groups, while also featuring sprints, relay races, cash prizes, and other experiences that rowers can’t find at other regattas.  

Thank you to Marriott Ann Arbor Ypsilanti Eagle Crest, a proud partner of the Ford Lake Rowing Course. 

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Get involved in the action! RowFest needs volunteers for parking attendants, boat drivers, platform leads, stakeboat holders, assistant referee.

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Spectator Parking

Each team will receive one complimentary coach parking pass that gets them continued access to Ford Lake Park. All other vehicles will pay at the entrance of the park and then staff and volunteers will assist with showing them where to park. Each vehicle will pay $10.00 in cash per day / per vehicle.

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Ann Arbor Sports Commission

"We are excited to host at the newly enhanced Rowing Course at Ford Lake, a facility that has been a part of our community for years but has recently undergone significant upgrades to become a championship-level rowing venue. This event is set to draw thousands of attendees from around the country, who will stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, and contribute to the local economy. As a division of Destination Ann Arbor, the Ann Arbor Sports Commission is proud that this course is the largest in Michigan, offering a premier venue that not only enhances our visibility as a top destination for major sporting events but also contributes to the economic growth across Washtenaw County."

Meaghan Hughes

Director of the Ann Arbor Sports Commission
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USRowing

Partnering with the Ann Arbor Sports Commission has been an outstanding experience. From start to finish, their team demonstrated professionalism, warmth, and a clear dedication to creating an exceptional experience for all involved. They go above and beyond to ensure every detail is thoughtfully executed, making everyone feel supported and welcomed. It’s also evident they’re not afraid to think big — bringing fresh ideas and a spirit of collaboration to the table. The Ann Arbor community is lucky to have such passionate advocates for events and experiences.

Sarah McAuliffe

Senior Director of Programs, USRowing