The Big Float Makes Another Splash
June 18th, 2012
Photo by LaValle PDX
Last summer, 1,500 wet and wild revelers formed a massive flotilla connecting Portland’s east and west sides over the Willamette River. Why? From Portland’s mayor to a bare-chested Batman, they did it because they could.
On Sunday, July 29, The Big Float sets sail again. A celebration of the river that runs through the city, this collection of inner tubes, floating loungers and inflatable toys makes a scene with a pre-float parade, but nothing beats the image of this motley crew enjoying the sun and splashing around at the height of Portland’s summer. This year, the most outlandish watercraft and costumes will earn awards, and there are plans for a floating barge to stream live music on the water.
More of a landlubber? You can watch from Hawthorne Bridge or drift into the dry-land gathering, where Portland favorites like Koi Fusion and Voodoo Doughnut will be serving up treats, while local bands including Bull Ramos and Ramona Falls get the crowd grooving. What a way to soak in the sun.
Tags: River, water sports
