RowFest 2026

July 11 – 19, 2026

Ford Lake Park, Ypsilanti, MI

Eastern Michigan University’s Innovative Ford Lake Course is hosting 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.

AI Tour Guide – Ask Anything About RowFest

Deals and Discounts for RowFest

Ypsi Alehouse

Ypsi Alehouse ifs offering 10% off the total bill excluding, tip and taxes, if they show their registration. FYI- they are children-friendly. They have kid’s meals and lots of non-alcoholic drinks.

Milkshake Factory

From July 11-19, mention “RowFest BOGO” to get MilkShake Factory's BOGO offer: Buy One Shake, Get One Shake Free! (Buy one milkshake and receive a milkshake of equal or lesser value free. Cannot be combined with any other offer or reward.)

Launch Ann Arbor

Use the code "JumpRow20" to receive 20% off any of the Launch general admission packages.

Venue by 4M

Venue by 4M is excited to offer a 15% discount on meals for visitors who mention the offer they saw on the website regarding RowFest. Max value $15 with a minimum spend of $20. Discount only available on food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Ruth's Chris Steakhouse

Detour to Sizzle — Welcome, Row Fest! Athletes, coaches, families, and spectators — construction won't stop your appetite. Enjoy 20% off entrées $99 or less now through August 31, 2026.

Offer valid for dine-in only at Ruth's Chris Steak House – Ann Arbor. 20% discount applies to entrées priced $99 or less; discount is calculated before tax and gratuity. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion. Exclusions may apply. See server for full details.

The Earle

The Earle is offering a 10% discount on the food portion of the bill (which cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount) for rowers and their families. To redeem this, guests should mention 'Rowfest' to their server or show the promotion message at the table.

BrightWorks

BrightWorks would like to offer free coworking passes to all RowFest guests at any of our three locations, with the option to upgrade to a private office on an hourly or daily basis at 50% off.
50% Off Hourly /Daily Office: ROWFEST
Free Coworking: TRYBRIGHT

Volunteer for RowFest

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

Christine and Zach on the dock at Ford Lake

Book Your Accommodations

USRowing has teamed up with HBC Event Services to offer discounted hotel accommodations for attendees of this event.

Stylish hotel room at Marriott Ann Arbor Ypsilanti

AI Tour Guide · Trip Planner

Tell us who’s coming.

We’ll plan the week.

Answer three quick questions and the AI tour guide builds you a custom itinerary — races to watch, where to park, where to eat, and what to do between heats.

I’m coming as

Length of stay

Traveling with

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.

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

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.

Contact Us

Volunteer