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Yorktown Battle Of The Boats
June 7 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Yorktown Battle Of The Boats
📅June 6 & 7, 2026
🕞2 PM – 6 PM (6/6), 12 PM – 4 PM (6/7)
📍Yorktown Waterfront
It’s anchors aweigh for one of Yorktown’s splashiest summer traditions! The Yorktown Battle of the Boats delivers waves of excitement and a “hull” of a good time for spectators of all ages.
Watch crews go bow to bow as small, medium, and large workboats race along the York River, all leading up to the can’t-miss King of the Bay showdown. Find a spot near Riverwalk Landing or along the beach for prime views, cheer on your favorites, and enjoy this true “must-sea” event.
On Saturday, watch as crews go bow to bow racing small, medium, and large workboats along the York River—all building to the King of the Bay showdown. At 3 p.m., observe the opening ceremony that will honor local watermen and include the reading of a proclamation to declare June 6 and 7 as Chesapeake Bay Deadrise Days. Following the ceremony, boaters will parade their vessels along the York River before the races begin at 4 p.m. The competition will start at the fishing pier and finish at the Riverwalk Landing Pier.
On Sunday, June 7, the thrills continue when the Maryland Docking All-Stars compete in the ultimate docking competition at Riverwalk Landing! This high-speed, high-stakes water sport challenges captains to maneuver workboats into tight slips with very little clearance. There will be an opening ceremony at 1 p.m. to recognize the participants, and the docking competition will begin at 1:30 p.m.
Arrive early to view the Art, Model Boat, and Waterfowl Carving Show in the Yorktown Freight Shed from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Children can have fun at Kid’s Town featuring family-friendly games and activities behind the Freight Shed. Seafood vendors, DJ music, and a recreational boat show will also be available to enjoy. Grab a spot near Riverwalk Landing for prime viewing, cheer on your favorites, and soak up this “must-sea” event.
The free, ADA-accessible Yorktown Trolley will be running from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the event.
For more information, see here.
