FIBArk or "First in Boating on the Arkansas" is a kaleidoscope of whitewater competitions and celebrations that date back to 1949 and continues to grow. It is an unparalleled event, with its whitewater festival, parades, and fun activities.
This year, whitewater enthusiasts will descend in hordes to Salida, Colorado, on June 12 through 15 for the 60th annual FIBArk festival.
Whitewater boating is the sport of traveling down or playing with a river's waves and other features such as rapids and currents. Whitewater festivals are held all over the world and FIBArk is the oldest in the United States.
Salida is a little town that is big on whitewater boating. It's situated along the banks of the Arkansas River in south-central Colorado. In fact, more people experience whitewater rafting, kayaking, and river enjoyment here than on any other river in Colorado. People here just love their whitewater, and FIBArk is proof.
For those who have never been to the FIBArk whitewater festival, imagine a carnival, rodeo, college graduation, and beach party—all with liberal doses of sun, water, and fun tossed in a slushy machine and poured into a hot tub. Soak it up and enjoy! Where else can you jump on a huge trampoline, see Ronald McDonald, shop for antiques, watch some awesome skaters, eat hot dogs and funnel cake, drink micro brews, and toss it all up in the whitewater 10 minutes later.
Whitewater kayaking and rafting competitions are the main attractions, but running, cycling, and skating are just a few of the diverse sports that make FIBArk unique. If you are going to the FIBArk festival, be sure not to miss the ever-popular Hooligan Race.
In the Hooligan Race, participants build their own hodgepodge of floating objects—with duct tape and string—for the purpose of attempting to float through the rapids. The goal is for the "craft" to stay together and for the crew to stay onboard. Seldom do the water oddities make it to the finish line but everyone has fun.
Outside of the FIBArk festival, you can try your hand at whitewater kayaking, rafting, and other river sports in the Arkansas Valley. The valley is set at the foot of some of the most amazing 14,000-foot peaks in the world and is a great vacation spot.
Camping and hotel accommodations are limited, but there is always enough room in neighboring towns.
Check out FIBArk at http://fibark.com for more information.
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