New Paltz Regatta Returns in June to Celebrate 70 Years

Once again, it is that time of year in New Paltz, New York, when all eyes turn toward the Wallkill River and await the famed New Paltz Regatta.

The New Paltz Regatta Returns for What Will Be Its 70th Year

This year, the New Paltz Regatta is celebrating its 70th year. Yes, according to Regatta historians, it is not an exact number simply because there were years when it just didn't come together, but much like the New Paltz Halloween parade, this tradition just won't say die.

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It all began in 1955 with the Delta Kappa Fraternity and their auto-parade carrying weird watercraft to the "swimming hole" at the Wallkill River, which is now known as the boat launch on Plains Road.

When is the 2025 New Paltz Regatta

On Sunday, June 8th, 2025, the 70th New Paltz Regatta will take to the Wallkill River for another test of wills and boat craftsmanship. Each year, the Regatta starts with a parade and ends with homemade boats floating up the Wallkill River. I would say down, but the Wallkill River flows up to the Hudson.

This year will be no different. The parade forms at the Village Hall at noon. It steps off at 1 PM and heads down Main Street and makes the turn onto Water Street, and then it is on to the Wallkill River shoreline to begin the race. Important to note, there is no fee to register. You can even contact the Regatta if you need funding for building materials.

There is some safety paperwork to fill out, and you do need to register, which you can do by going to newpaltzregatta.org.

Fun Videos of New Paltz Regattas of the Past

New Paltz Regatta 1955

New Paltz Regatta 2012

New Paltz Regatta 2015

New Paltz Regatta 2017

New Paltz Regatta 2018