Ahoy, future ship captains!
The Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation (MPRF) is thrilled to invite you to our Star Spangled Spectacular—an exciting, splash-filled fundraising event for all ages! Join us on the Fourth of July for a cardboard boat regatta like no other and put your creativity, engineering skills, and sense of adventure to the test.
Kids Division (Ages 5–14)
Young captains, this one's for you! Families are encouraged to work together to build an amazing cardboard boat using only cardboard and duct tape—two magical materials we'll provide at the event. Bring your imagination and create a vessel that's ready for a splashing good time in the pool!
Teams will consist of one child and one guardian, with the child serving as captain of the boat during the race. We'll have some tools available to help shape and cut your creation, and you're welcome to bring your own non-powered cutting tools as well. The entry fee is $35 per team and includes a commemorative youth t-shirt.
Adult Division (Ages 15+)
Think you've got what it takes to engineer a cardboard masterpiece and stay afloat? The Adult Division is your chance to prove it! Participants ages 15 and older must arrive on July 4 with their boat already designed and constructed using only cardboard and duct tape from supplies you acquire.
Whether you're racing for speed, competing for style points, or simply hoping to make it across the pool without sinking, you'll be supporting a great cause while having a blast. The $50 entry fee serves as a fundraiser for MPRF, helping provide resources, recreational opportunities, and quality-of-life experiences for children and families throughout our community.
Awards and Fun
We'll have prizes galore for the most creative designs, the most innovative vessels, and, of course, the fastest boats to race across the water! Whether you're gliding across the pool like a seasoned sailor or showing off a delightfully wacky design, there's a category for everyone.
Safety First
Lifeguards will be on-site throughout the event to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. We encourage racers to wear a properly fitted life jacket if needed—safety is our top priority.
More Than a Race
The Star Spangled Spectacular is all about bringing our community together, celebrating creativity, and having fun while exploring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) through hands-on learning. Most importantly, it's an opportunity to support the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Foundation and the programs that enrich the lives of local youth and families.
We can't wait to see the incredible boats you build and the memories you'll make on the water!
Avast! Here are the quick details:
2026 Star Spangled Spectacular Cardboard Boat Regatta
July 4th 2026
City Park Pool, 1220 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502
Registration 8-9am, Boat Building 9-10a, Races begin at 10:00am
If you would like to purchase a t-shirt without registering for the event, click here.
Star Spangled Spectacular Sponsors
Interested in sponsoring the Star Spangled Spectacular? CLICK HERE
Flagship Level
