Cardboard Boat Races Coming to Dearborn, MI in February 2024

Construct a boat from cardboard and compete against others this month in Dearborn.

Just because it is February in Michigan, doesn't mean that water fun can't take place. Thanks to the Dearborn Parks & Recreation Department, water lovers in Michigan can enjoy competitions by the pool during this cold winter.

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The Cardboard Boat Races return to the lap pool at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan. This event offers different age categories to compete in along with awards in three different categories. Awards will be given in the following categories:

• Fastest Time
• First to Sink
• Most Artistic

When are the Cardboard Boat Races in Dearborn?

The Cardboard Boat Races are set to take place on Saturday, February 17th at 4 pm. Teams can signup in different groups to compete including Parent & Child (12 and under,) 13 to 17 years old, and 18 years and older. Fees range from $15 to $25 to compete. After those races are finished, teams can stick around to watch different departments from the city compete against each other.

What can I use to build my cardboard boat?

Teams may only use the following items to construct their boat:

• Cardboard
• Duct tape
• Water-based/safe paint
• Water-soluble caulk or silicone sealant
• Water-based wood glue
• Water-soluble outdoor latex-based primer/paint

DO NOT USE:

• Wood
• Screws
• Nails
• Plastic
• Rubber
• Glitter
• Styrofoam
• Or any toxic adhesives

The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is  also offering a build day for teams in Studio A on Saturday, February 10th from 9 am to Noon.

For a complete list of rules and details, click here.

Source: Dearborn Parks & Rec