Celebrate Calhoun’s connection to the Hiwassee River during the River Town Festival on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Hiwassee Blueway, 101 Cherokee Crossing in Calhoun, Tennessee.

Festival activities include a Hiwassee River photo contest, with entries due July 10, and a fishing contest running from June 22 through July 12 for the largest catch between the Highway 411 and Highway 58 bridges. Events on July 18 begin with the Charity Duck Race at 9:00 a.m. at Saulpaw Dam. The Cardboard Boat Regatta and Downstream Rush Kayak Race begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by Make a Splash at 11:00 a.m. Pontoon boat rides will depart hourly from 11:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m.

Historian Sheriff Joe Guy will lead Hidden Meadows tours at 10:00 a.m., noon, and 2:00 p.m. Participants may launch their own kayak or canoe from the Hiwassee Blueway, with a limited number of loaner boats available. The Downstream Rush Kayak Race runs from Hiwassee Acres to the Hiwassee Blueway and includes a $20 registration fee and a $500 prize.

At sunset on July 18 and 19, participants can join Glow with the Flow, an illuminated evening paddle from the Hiwassee Blueway. Participants should bring and decorate their own vessel, although limited loaners will be available. Fireworks over the Hiwassee River will also take place at sunset on both evenings.

Advance registration is required for select activities and is available at Calhoun City Hall. Preregistered participants will receive a free T-shirt. Visit calhounrivertown.com for registration details and additional information.