The annual Elk River Boat Party will be held on Saturday, July 6, and will go from 3-7 p.m. It’s free to the public and by boat only. You simply pull up, tie out your boat and enjoy some free entertainment.

This year is the second year to a new era we started last year when we had to make a change in bands. It was a big step, however, the party was a great success and in spite of the rain early on, the day turned out to be the perfect overcast with the perfect temps.

One returning performer is the band “Sipsey Falls” with a few new band members this year. They were certainly a crowd pleaser last year, as well. The band does a really cool thing in that they allowed the boaters to text in request for songs and interact with the band. It was really exciting to see and hear friends talk about how cool it was to request a sing and then hear them play it. Something so simple made the party really fun. And, although not required, you could tip the band if you wanted.

As always, there will be free koozies to all the boaters and sponsors that are paid for by the sponsors and any donations. We are always so thankful for our attendees and truly blessed that each year just gets bigger and better.

The koozies come in really cool colors that represent the July 4 holiday and list the sponsors for this event. Without the sponsors, this event would not be happening. We are so thankful they continue to make this happen for the community and continue to dedicate their hard-earned money. Planning this event is always so much fun because each year we pick up new sponsors and get to see our repeat sponsors.

We are constantly meeting new people every year and connecting people to businesses who probably wouldn’t get the chance to know each other without this connection. Giving back to the community in this way is such an honor.

We try to estimate each year the number of boaters and people that come out but it is sometimes hard to do. Depending on the weather, and the number of boaters bringing their friends, you can count anywhere from 250 people up to around 350 boats. Of course, each year that number changes depending on how the holiday falls and the weather. “Many of the people that attend this event plan their July 4 holiday weekend around it and stay on the water all weekend.

Directions to the Boat Party

The only way to get to the party is by boat, and the directions are as follows: from the Tennessee River, go north on the Elk River and under Lee Hi Bridge (U.S. 72 bridge). Turn left into Anderson Creek and the party is on the right. The nearest boat launch is the Lee Hi Bridge boat launch.

For more information, go to 18th Annual Elk River Boat Party on Facebook and then get yourself to the celebration, even if you have to hitch a ride.