Mark your calendars; it’s racing season! Be sure to check event websites for updates (especially weather cancellations/delays). If new powerboat races are announced, we will list them here.
Harford County Spring Nationals: May 16-17
Come on out and bring the whole family for two days of action-packed racing (noon to 5 p.m.) on the Bush River in Edgewood, MD, during the Harford County Spring Nationals. The best viewing area is Flying Point Park; spectators are welcome to bring their own chairs and blankets. Free admission. Offsite event parking at Deerfield Elementary and Edgewood Middle School. Food trucks, beverages, live music, and 12 divisions of races.
Cambridge Classic Powerboat Regatta: May 23-24
The Cambridge Classic is the oldest active powerboat race in the country happens on Hambrooks Bay off the Choptank River in Cambridge, Maryland. About 50 boats are expected to be on hand to create an exciting two days of racing. Admission is free with a $5 a day donation for parking. Kid’s Zone, food, and drinks will be available. New in 2026 the Triple B Festival on Saturday: Brews, Blue Catfish, and Boat Racing. Watch on land on bleachers at Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh. Spectators can also watch the Cambridge Classic from their own boats on the water. The fleet will raft at Rooster Point. A no-wake zone will be established from Howell Point to the Choptank River Bridge. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days (weather permitting), boats will race in these classes: H350 Hydroplanes, 2.5 Liter Hydroplanes, Formula 2500, and Jersey Speed Skiffs. The Hydroplane Racing League (HRL) will be kicking off their 2026 Season at this race and will be coordinating all race activity.
Thunder on the Choptank: August 29-30
The Kent Narrows Racing Association will be back racing on the Choptank River from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh in Cambridge, MD. Stay tuned for more details at kentnarrowsracing.com and cpbra.com.
Hampton Cup Regatta: September 5-6
The East Coast’s premier inboard hydroplane race returns to Hampton, VA for the 100th year. The Hampton Cup Regatta is a free event with spectating areas on the Mercury Blvd. bridge that leads to Fort Monroe and the grassy area on Stilwell Drive. Organizers recommend bringing your own seating. The Hampton Cup Regatta no longer allows spectator boats/vessels during racing hours. Apart from watching the races you can visit the children’s area or one of the many food vendors. In addition, you can meet the drivers and pit crews, look at the boats up close, and really get a feel for what goes into keeping these boats running.