Renton River Days
Celebrating 40 Years of Community, Tradition, and Connection
For four decades, Renton River Days has brought residents, families, businesses and visitors together to celebrate the spirit, character, and pride of Renton. Built on local collaboration and a legacy of community celebration, this vibrant festival welcomes thousands each summer along the banks of the Cedar River.
In 2025, more than 25,000 people joined the festivities, and the 40th Anniversary Festival in 2026 promises to be the biggest yet.
Experience the Heart of Renton
The celebration begins at Liberty Park, one of Renton’s oldest and most recognized parks and the historic heart of Renton River Days.
Best of all, it’s all FREE.
The festival unfolds across a connected campus including Cedar River Park, Liberty Park, and the Renton Community Center, all linked by the Houser Way corridor.
NEW for 2026: Enjoy River Nights at Legacy Square, an exciting evening experience bringing music, energy, and community together in downtown Renton.
Join us July 24–26, 2026 and be part of the celebration.
2026 Full Schedule
Thursday, July 23
Senior Day Picnic
11 a.m.–1 p.m. at Renton Community Center
Ages 50 and up, this one’s for YOU! Kick off Renton River Days with a crowd favorite: a BBQ bash, live tunes from Seattle Solid Gold and an afternoon of fun, friends & festive vibes! This event sells out every year, so don’t wait! Whether you’re dancing to the hits or just catching up with friends, you won’t want to miss it! $5 each. Register at rentonwa.gov/Register with code #30712
Friday, July 24
Teen Swim at the Aquatic Center
3:30-6:30 p.m. at Henry Moses Aquatics Center
Ages 14–17, this swim is just for you! The entire aquatic center will be exclusively yours! Wristband required for entry. Spots are limited—pre-register now! $10 per participant. Register at rentonwa.gov/register with #30726. Info: Recreation@rentonwa.gov or 425-420-6700.
Adaptive Rec Swim Night
6:30–8:30 p.m. at Henry Moses Aquatics Center
Enjoy an exclusive evening at the pool created especially for our Adaptive Recreation community. This welcoming swim session is open only to participants with disabilities, along with their families and caregivers.
Splash, slide, float the lazy river, and enjoy a fun, inclusive evening together.
Renton Resident: $10/Non-Resident: $15 | Register at rentonwa.gov/register #30776
Live Music from The Kennydales & Drone Show
7:30 p.m. at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
Kick off Renton River Days with an unforgettable evening of live music and a spectacular Drone Show under this year's theme, Through the Decades.
- 7:30 p.m. Music: The Kennydales, Renton's own Yacht Rock powerhouse, start the evening off right behind IVARS restaurant.
- 9:30 p.m. Drone Show: Look up for a spectacular show by Sky Elements, showcasing a display of celebration and community.
Helpful Information - Bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating in the grass. Parking is limited. Please review the Parking & Transportation section before arriving.
NEW! River Nights at Legacy Square
The celebration doesn't end when the sun goes down. Head to Legacy Square, Renton's downtown gathering place, for two evenings of live music, food trucks, beverages, and great company. Gather with friends, enjoy the music, and keep the River Days celebration going into the evening.
- 5:30 p.m.: Food Trucks & Beverages Open
- 6:30 p.m.: ABBAgraphs - Premier ABBA Tribute Band
- 7:30 p.m.: Nite Wave - 80’s New Wave
Saturday, July 25
Renton River Days Parade “Through the Decades”
10 a.m. in Downtown along S. Third St. from Shattuck Ave. to Liberty Park with parade announcers from 101.5 Hank FM.
The Renton River Days Parade is the festival's most iconic tradition—and one you won't want to miss! Grab your spot early along the parade route and enjoy an exciting celebration of community featuring energetic drill teams, talented dancers, spirited marching bands, youth organizations, colorful floats, and hometown pride.
Live parade announcing and judging take place in front of Piazza Park.
This year's parade is proudly led by Grand Marshal Toni Nelson, whose dedication and service have helped make Renton a stronger, more connected community.
Chalk Art Competition
10 a.m.–3 p.m. along the northwest corner of Cedar River Park
2026 Theme: A Legacy in Color: Celebrating 40 Years Together
Watch creativity come to life as talented artists transform the pavement into a colorful outdoor gallery. Stroll through incredible temporary works of art, cheer on your favorite artists, and experience one of Renton River Days' most inspiring traditions.
Presented by the Renton Municipal Arts Commission and our talented community artists.
River Days Beer Garden
11 a.m.–7 p.m. at Liberty Park near the entertainment stage
Take a break, raise a glass, and enjoy the festival from the best seat in the park! Located next to the Main Stage, the River Days Beer Garden is the perfect place for guests 21 and older to relax with a cold beverage, enjoy live music, and soak in the festival atmosphere.
Challenge a friend to a game of cornhole, enjoy lawn games, or simply sit back and take in the entertainment. Whether you're recharging between activities or settling in for your favorite band, this is the place to unwind and keep the celebration going.
Helpful Information: Guests must be 21 years of age or older with valid photo identification.
Summer Bazaar
11 a.m.–7 p.m. at Renton Community Center
Shop one-of-a-kind artwork, handmade gifts, and unique creations from talented local artisans in the comfort of the Renton Community Center.
Enjoy a climate-controlled shopping experience with convenient indoor restrooms, easy accessibility for guests using mobility devices, additional ADA parking, and Community Center staff available to assist vendors throughout the event. It's the perfect place to shop local while taking a break from the summer sun.
All–Ages ActivityZone FREE!
11 a.m.–8 p.m. at Cedar River Park next to Renton Community Center
The place for nonstop fun! Packed with giant inflatables, games, climbing challenges, and interactive activities, the ActivityZone is designed for kids of all ages to bounce, play, explore, and make unforgettable River Days memories.
Attractions
Kraken Slide •Ninja Warped Wall•25-Foot Carousel Bouncer•Block Party 5-in-1 Combo•30-Foot Obstacle Course•Big Rig Video Game Theater•Zoo Playland Toddler Area•Ballistic Swing Ride•Klime Wallz•Football Challenge•Four-Station Bungee Trampoline
Also Featuring
Dizzy's Tumble Bus
A full-sized school bus transformed into a mobile gym filled with fun equipment that keeps children active, moving, and smiling. Location: West of the Renton Community Center.
Community Connections
11 a.m.–8 p.m. at Liberty Park
Meet the organizations that help make Renton a great place to live, work, and play. Visit City departments, community partners, nonprofits, public service agencies, and festival sponsors dedicated to strengthening our community and enhancing our parks and recreation system.
Every booth offers something to discover, from interactive activities and giveaways to helpful information, community resources, and giveaways.
Renton Foodie Fest
11 a.m.–8 p.m. in Liberty Park, along Houser Way, and on west side of the Renton Community Center
Come hungry! Foodie Fest brings together an incredible lineup of local food vendors serving everything from BBQ, burgers, and international cuisine to sweet treats, coffee, and refreshing drinks. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sampling your way through the festival, there's something for everyone.
Featured Vendors
BBQ • Burgers • Cheesesteaks • Gyros • Filipino Cuisine • Fijian Cuisine • Pizza • Corn Dogs • Smoothies • Espresso • Ice Cream • Mini Donuts • Shave Ice • Kettle Corn • Desserts • Fresh Juices • And so much more!
Wenatchee Youth Circus FREE!
Half shows at 12:30 p.m., & 2:30 p.m. Full show at 5 p.m. at the Big Field Baseball Stadium at Liberty Park
Known as the “Biggest Little Circus in the World” the show has amazed audiences for generations with professional-quality performances by talented young artists. Experience high-wire acts, flying trapeze, aerial performances, fire acts, and more in one of Renton River Days' most popular family traditions.
Live Music at Liberty Park Stage
There's nothing better than live music in the park! The Liberty Park Main Stage features incredible talent all weekend long—from hometown favorites and regional performers to nationally recognized acts. Bring a chair or blanket, gather with family and friends, and don't forget your dancing shoes.
- 11:30 a.m.: Elizabeth Better - Original Fun Rock
- 12:45 p.m.: Under the Canopy - Folk Pop Duo
- 2 p.m.: The Hipsters - 90’s Rock with Guile & Flair
- 3:30 p.m.: Steve Aliment & Annie O’Neill - Country, Blues & Americana
- 5 p.m.: Naked Giants - Indie Rock, National Act!
NEW! Cedar River Park Stage
The Activity Zone just got even better! Between bouncing, climbing, and exploring, enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend featuring interactive performers and family-friendly acts that are sure to delight audiences of all ages.
- 12–1 p.m.: Cap’n Arrr, Won Israel - Funniest Pirate to Never Sail
- 2–3 p.m.: Hula Sunshine
- 4–5:30 p.m.: Double Dutch Divas - Blending Health & Teamwork
NEW! River Nights at Legacy Square
The celebration doesn't end when the sun goes down. Head to Legacy Square, Renton's downtown gathering place, for two evenings of live music, food trucks, beverages, and great company. Gather with friends, enjoy the music, and keep the River Days celebration going into the evening.
- 6:30 p.m.: Reposado - Afrobeat, Salsa, Funk and Soul
- 7:30 p.m.: Wild Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Experience
Sunday, July 26
River Days Beer Garden
11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Liberty Park near the entertainment stage
Take a break, raise a glass, and enjoy the festival from the best seat in the park! Located next to the Main Stage, the River Days Beer Garden is the perfect place for guests 21 and older to relax with a cold beverage, enjoy live music, and soak in the festival atmosphere.
Challenge a friend to a game of cornhole, enjoy lawn games, or simply sit back and take in the entertainment. Whether you're recharging between activities or settling in for your favorite band, this is the place to unwind and keep the celebration going.
Helpful Information: Guests must be 21 years of age or older with valid photo identification.
All–Ages ActivityZone FREE!
11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Cedar River Park
Expanded line-up of free attractions for children, teens and adults.
Summer Bazaar
11 a.m.– 5 p.m. at Renton Community Center
Shop one-of-a-kind artwork, handmade gifts, and unique creations from talented local artisans in the comfort of the Renton Community Center.
Enjoy a climate-controlled shopping experience with convenient indoor restrooms, easy accessibility for guests using mobility devices, additional ADA parking, and Community Center staff available to assist vendors throughout the event. It's the perfect place to shop local while taking a break from the summer sun.
Renton Foodie Fest
11 a.m.–5 p.m. in Liberty Park, along Houser Way, and on west side of the Renton Community Center
Take a break or refuel for more River Days fun!
Community Connections
11 a.m.–5 p.m. at Liberty Park
Meet the organizations that help make Renton a great place to live, work, and play. Visit City departments, community partners, nonprofits, public service agencies, and festival sponsors dedicated to strengthening our community and enhancing our parks and recreation system.
Every booth offers something to discover, from interactive activities and giveaways to helpful information, community resources, and giveaways.
Wenatchee Youth Circus FREE!
Half shows at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. at the Big Field at Liberty Park
Enjoy the “Biggest Little Circus in the World,” with professional-quality circus acts, including high wire, flying trapeze, fire acts, and aerial acts.
Rubber Ducky Derby
3:30 p.m. at the Houser Way Bridge
Thousands of little yellow ducks race for valuable prizes. Buy a ticket from any Rotarian at the Tuesday Renton Farmers Markets at Piazza Park, or at the Rotary Booth in Liberty Park during festival weekend, for your chance to win.
Live Music at Liberty Park
- 11:30 a.m.: Happy Heathens - Orca Friendly Rock
- 1 p.m.: 3 Trick Pony - Classic Hits & More
- 2:30 p.m.: Brian Nay Band - 70’s & 80’s Radio Tunes
- 4 p.m.: 13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute Band
NEW! Cedar River Park Stage
- 1:30–2 p.m.: Taiko Drumming - Japan Creative Arts
- 4–5 p.m. : Double Dutch Divas
More to Explore!
11 a.m. - 5 p.m. throughout the entire Festival Campus!
The fun doesn't stop at the main attractions! Keep your eyes open for exciting experiences waiting around every corner throughout Liberty Park and Cedar River Park.
Festival Fun•Face Painting•Caricature Artists•Mini Golf•Soccer Darts•Yard Games•Renton Regional Fire Authority Activities•Renton Police Department Activities
...and even more surprises throughout the weekend!
Full schedule details here.(PDF, 1MB)
2026 Events and Activities
ActivityZone & All Ages Fun
Expanded line-up of free attractions for children, teens and adults.
Cedar River Park next to Henry Moses Aquatic Center, Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m. & Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Kraken Slide - Beware the mythical beast!
- Ninja Warped Wall - Test your warrior skills
- 25 ft. Carousel Bouncer - A classic huge bounce house
- Block Party - 5 in 1 Combo Bounce and slide
- 30 ft. Obstacle Course - Race your friend to the end!
- Big Rig Video Game Theater - Over 100 games
- Zoo Playland Toddler - Perfect for the little ones
- Ballistic Swing Ride - A blast from the past!
- Klime Wallz - Climb to new heights!
- Football Challenge - Test your football skills
- 4 Station Bungee Trampoline - Take fun to new heights
Additional fun!
- Dizzy’s Tumble Bus: West side of Renton Community Center. A full-sized school bus transformed into a mini gym, packed with all sorts of fun equipment to keep kids active and entertained!
- Wenatchee Youth Circus: Known as the “Biggest Little Circus in the World” the show is one of several non-professional groups performing in the United States. Enjoy professional-quality circus acts, including high wire, flying trapeze, fire acts, and aerial acts.
- Saturday, July 25: Half shows at 12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. Full show at 5 p.m. at the Big Field at Liberty Park
- Sunday, July 26: Half shows at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m. at the Big Field at Liberty Park
- Caricaturist
- Chalk Art
- Putt Putt Golf
- Soccer Darts
- Renton Police Department Activities
- Renton Regional Fire Authority Activities
- Stage Entertainment
- Yard Games
Foodie Fest
Take a break or refuel for more River Days fun!
Liberty & Cedar River Parks, Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m. & Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Botanas Don Nacho
- C. Davis Texas BBQ
- Cafe de la Loba & Dirty Dawgz
- Cha Boran
- The Corndoggery
- Dippy’s Ice Cream
- Em Studio Cafe
- Evergreen Smoothie
- Go Philly Cheesesteaks & Wings
- Hansen’s Mini Donuts
- Isidros
- Kairos Ice Cream
- LBees Filipino Deli
- The Marigold
- Wood Fired Pizza
- Mike’s Shave Ice
- Mobile Burgerz
- The Mobile Mayan
- Nana’s Food Bites
- OMG GYROS
- Our Hive Juicery
- Puddin’Cakz
- Puffle Up
- RTI
- The Shortcake Bar
- Stacks Burgers
- Sugar & Spoon
- Sweet Wheels
- Tastyz
- Tolu Modern Fijian Cuisine
- Una’s Kettle Corn
- Uncle Bill’s Famous
- Corndog Shack
- Village Perk Espresso
- WrapCity
Summer Bazaar
Renton Community Center, Saturday, July 25 from 11 a.m.-7 a.m. & Sunday, July 26 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Bazaar features art and hand-crafted items for sale. No worries about extra warm weather or raindrops, shop indoors!
Live Music
FRIDAY, JULY 24
Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
- 7:30–9:15 p.m.: The Kennydales -70’s & 80’s Yacht Rock
NEW! River Nights at Legacy Square
- 6:30 p.m.: ABBAgraphs - Premier ABBA Tribute Band
- 7:30 p.m.: Nite Wave - 80’s New Wave
SATURDAY, JULY 25
Liberty Park Stage
- 11:30 a.m.: Elizabeth Better - Original Fun Rock
- 12:45 p.m.: Under the Canopy - Folk Pop Duo
- 2 p.m.: The Hipsters - 90’s Rock with Guile & Flair
- 3:30 p.m.: Steve Aliment & Annie O’Neill - Country, Blues & Americana
- 5 p.m.: Naked Giants - Indie Rock, National Act!
NEW! Cedar River Park Stage
- 12–1 p.m.: Cap’n Arrr, Won Israel - Funniest Pirate to Never Sail
- 2–3 p.m.: Hula Sunshine
- 4–5:30 p.m.: Double Dutch Divas = Blending Health and Teamwork
NEW! River Nights at Legacy Square
- 6:30 p.m.: Reposado - Afrobeat, Salsa, Funk and Soul
- 7:30 p.m.: Wild Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Experience
SUNDAY, JULY 26
Liberty Park Stage
- 11:30 a.m.: Happy Heathens - Orca Friendly Rock
- 1 p.m.: 3 Trick Pony - Classic Hits & More
- 2:30 p.m.: Brian Nay Band - 70’s & 80’s Radio Tunes
- 4 p.m.: 13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute Band
NEW! Cedar River Park Stage
- 1:30–2 p.m.: Taiko Drumming - Japan Creative Arts
- 4–5 p.m.: Double Dutch Divas
Participate in Renton River Days
Parade Entries (Applications Closed)
Be part of the Renton River Days Parade!
Make a grand entrance at Renton River Days! We’re looking for community groups, marching bands, businesses, and creative floats to bring the Saturday morning parade to life. Show off your spirit and be part of this beloved tradition!
Parade applications closed on July 10, 2026 at 5 PM.
Community Booth Vendors (Applications Closed)
Applications are now CLOSED for 2026
Calling all local organizations!
Renton River Days is now accepting family-friendly community booth applications for this summer’s festival! This is your chance to connect with thousands of attendees and share how your organization benefits the community through accessibility, sustainability, and community well-being!
Summer Bazaar Vendors (Applications Closed)
*We are no longer accepting Summer Bazaar application for Renton River Days 2026*
Are you a craftsperson or artisan with unique goods to share? The Summer Bazaar is the perfect place to showcase and sell your handmade, locally crafted, and specialty products. Connect with the community and gain exposure at one of Renton’s biggest festivals!
Thank you for your interest!
Foodie Fest Vendors (Applications Closed)
*We are no longer accepting Foodie Fest applications for Renton River Days 2026*
Calling all food vendors!
Join the Renton Foodie Fest and showcase your delicious creations to thousands of festivalgoers! We’re looking for food trucks and food booths serving everything from savory bites to sweet treats. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this food lover’s paradise!
Volunteer
Be a volunteer Superstar!
Want to be part of the fun behind the scenes? Join our amazing team of Renton River Days volunteers! Help bring this incredible community festival to life while gaining experience, meeting new people, and making unforgettable memories.
Check back in May 2026 to apply to be a volunteer!
- Renton River Days Parade Volunteer -Date TBD
- Renton River Days GREEN Team -Dates TBD
Things to Know
Parking
Parking is available throughout the festival, but lots fill quickly. We encourage guests to arrive early or consider rideshare or public transportation.
City Center Garage
655 S 2nd Street (Just north of Piazza Park, 1 block from the parade route, and 0.4 miles from Liberty Park)
The City Center Garage is the recommended parking location for easy access to Renton River Days activities. Additional public parking is available throughout downtown Renton, including at the Renton Community Center and Senior Activity Center. Parking lots may fill quickly, so plan to arrive early.
200 Mill
Festival parking is available at the 200 Mill Building beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 25. Prior to 2 p.m., parking at the 200 Mill Building is reserved exclusively for Renton River Days Parade participants.
ADA Parking: Liberty Park, 1101 Bronson Way N
Please help keep our neighborhoods and businesses accessible by not blocking driveways, business entrances, exits, or posted time-limited parking areas.
Want to know where to park in downtown Renton? See the full map.
Where to park downtown
NEW! Shuttle Train
All aboard! Passengers can ride between Liberty and Cedar River Parks to catch all the action.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Why Sponsor Renton River Days?
Community Visibility
- Place your brand at the center of one of Renton’s largest annual gatherings.
Positive Brand Association
- Align your organization with a trusted city event celebrating community and culture.
Direct Engagement
- Connect with thousands of residents and visitors through on-site presence and marketing exposure.
Support Local Traditions
- Help sustain and grow a 40-year community celebration.
Audience & Community Engagement
Renton River Days attracts a wide and diverse audience, including:
- Families and children
- Young professionals and community groups
- Local business owners and entrepreneurs
- Seniors and long-time residents
- Regional visitors exploring the Pacific Northwest
The event provides direct brand exposure to thousands of people who live, work, and shop in the greater Renton area.
Festival Reach & Community Impact
25,000+ Attendees
- Community members and visitors attend the three-day festival each year.
15,000+ Social Media Followers
- Promotion across the City of Renton Parks & Recreation platforms.
50,000+ Marketing Reach
- Email campaigns, press releases, and regional event promotion.
3 Days of Activities
- Continuous engagement across multiple event zones and experiences.
40 Years of Community Tradition
- One of Renton’s longest-running and most iconic community festivals.
2026 Sponsorship Levels
Level
|
Investment
|
Key Exposure
|
|
Premier Festival Sponsor
|
$30,000
|
Drone show logo display, exclusive recognition with City of Renton, premier booth placement, promotional materials, website presence, social media and media promotion, exclusive drone show viewing
|
|
Festival Co-Sponsor
|
$15,000
|
Co-branded event recognition, booth space, promotional materials, website listing, social media and media promotion
|
|
Entertainment Stage – Presenting Sponsor
|
$12,000
|
Name and logo on main entertainment stage, premier booth space, promotional materials, website listing, social media and media promotion
|
|
Activity Zone Sponsor (3 available)
|
$10,000
|
Branding within Activity Zone, booth space, promotional materials, website listing, social media and media promotion
|
|
Entertainment Co-Sponsor
|
$6,000
|
Entertainment stage signage, booth space, promotional materials, website listing, social media promotion
|
|
Parade Sponsor
|
$5,000
|
Name featured on official parade banner, website listing, social media recognition, recognition during parade announcements
|
|
Senior BBQ Sponsor
|
$3,000
|
Branding at Senior BBQ event, booth space, website listing, social media promotion
|
|
General Event Sponsor
|
$2,000
|
Booth space, event signage recognition, website listing, social media promotion
|
|
Website Sponsor
|
$800
|
Logo and link on Renton River Days website
|
Signature Sponsorship Opportunities
Drone Show – Premier Activation
The festival’s headline nighttime experience, visible to thousands across downtown Renton.
Entertainment Stage
Three days of live performances drawing large crowds and continuous engagement.
Activity Zone
A family-focused area attracting children and families throughout the festival.
Community Parade
A Renton tradition featuring community organizations, businesses, and local pride.
Let's Create Experiences Together
All sponsorship packages are flexible and can be customized to meet partnership goals.
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact by July 10, 2026 at 5 PM:
Jennifer Spencer
City of Renton Parks & Recreation
jspencer@rentonwa.gov
Stay in Renton
Coming from out of town? Renton has many wonderful places to stay for the weekend. Find your next stay here.