Three days of parades, live music, competitions, and family fun at North Cove Park. July 10–12, 2026.
Carnival by Davis Shows NW
Thursday July 9 through Sunday July 12. Rides, games, and fun for all ages.
Presale wristbands available — unlimited rides for $38/day!
Opening Day — Evening Events
FREE and fun for all ages! Bikes, scooters, strollers, wagons, Power Wheels — all welcome! Sponsored by Lake Stevens Education Foundation and Sunnyside Preschool. Same-day registration available.
Chairs: Carrie Blankenship & Staci Lindstrand
Register →An unforgettable comedy hypnosis show on the main stage. Come watch volunteers from the audience get hypnotized!
Strike a pose! Get free photos at the Snap and Glow photo booth when you subscribe to the Aquafest newsletter. A fun keepsake from the festival for the whole family.
Movies in the Park — bring a blanket and enjoy a film under the stars. Movie title TBA.
Unconfirmed — check back for updates
Main Event Day — Parade, Competitions, Music & Fireworks
Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue serves pancakes, eggs, and ham hot off the grill. Coffee and OJ available. Cost is by donation — proceeds go to Fire 7 Foundation.
Chair: Lanna Larson (SRFR)
Enjoy an all-weekend lakeside destination to relax and unwind with beer, wine, seltzers, and cocktails. Set in a beautiful open-air space with views of Lake Stevens and nearby entertainment — the perfect spot to take a break and soak up the festival atmosphere. 21+ with valid ID.
Chair: Kelsey Olson
Family-friendly event for skiers of all levels and ages. $20 club members / $30 general public. Categories: Open, Expert, Class I–III, Men's & Women's Novice, and Children under 12. Prizes awarded in each category. AWSA membership required ($10 at event).
Chair: Steve
The cutest competition at Aquafest! Watch little ones crawl their way to the finish line.
Dance, bubbles, and fun for the little ones! An hour of music and bubble machines.
The highlight of Aquafest! Floats, marching bands, community groups, classic cars, and more wind through downtown. Route: starts on Hartford Drive near the Fire Station, down Main Street, turning at 18th St NE, ending at 20th St NE. Special guest this year: the iconic Lake Stevens “chicken drive-in” chicken makes its first parade appearance!
Decorate your boat and cruise Lake Stevens! No specific theme this year — let your creativity run wild. Family boats stay near the front by the fire boat. Treats to toss at the docks are encouraged. All boat safety regulations enforced by Lake Stevens PD.
Chair: Jeff Pegrum
A classic festival competition! Who can finish first? Fun for participants and spectators alike.
Unconfirmed — check back for updates
Interactive band performance — get ready to sing, dance, and be part of the show!
A summertime favorite! Compete to see who can eat the most watermelon the fastest.
Unconfirmed — check back for updates
Live R&B, Soul, and Funk on the main stage.
Karaoke meets rock concert! Sing your favorite songs backed by a live band on the main stage.
Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band — Southern rock to close out Saturday night before the fireworks!
The grand finale of Saturday! A spectacular fireworks display over the lake, visible from North Cove Park and the surrounding shoreline.
Unconfirmed — check back for updates
Closing Day — Community Events & Family Fun
Sunday encore! Pancakes, eggs, and ham by SRFR. Donation-based, proceeds to Fire 7 Foundation.
The classic game comes to life on stage! Follow the commands — but only if Simon says so. Fun for all ages.
Build a wind-powered boat using $50 or less in materials (garage sale prices) and race it on the lake. No motors or engines — paddles for maneuvering only. Coast Guard-approved PFD required. All participants sign an entry form and Hold Harmless Agreement. New this year: a Kids Category for ages 13 & under!
Chair: Karl Slomchinski
Acoustic rock to kick off Sunday afternoon on the main stage.
Multi-genre live music on the main stage.
Classic rock to close out Aquafest 2026 on the main stage.
Get ready to reach new heights! Our popular climbing wall is back Sunday, July 12 from 10am–4pm at the Boat Launch. Whether you’re a first-time climber or a seasoned adventurer, this is perfect for all ages. Challenge yourself, cheer on your friends, and enjoy the thrill of the climb!
Chair: James Hampton
Watch club members demonstrate dog agility, then try the mini agility equipment yourself with one-on-one instruction! Afterward, bring your dog or other pet to the Proud Pet Show — MC’d by the agility club with judges and awards provided.
Chairs: Gary Webster & Ken
A signature Aquafest tradition — a full afternoon of hands-on activities, games, and entertainment for kids and families at North Cove Park. Pennies in the Hay, Pizza Eating Contest, Bounce House, Face Painting, and more.
Chair: Susan Reich
Back by popular demand! The Lake Stevens Rowing Club offers a free “Try Row” session — an excellent introduction to the sport for youths (13+) and adults of all ages. Start with body-sequencing technique on the erg, then (weather permitting) move to the water in team boats to add proper oar blade work. All experience levels welcome.
Chair: Kevin Tuley • (425) 418-0393
Sponsored by Central Welding. Classics, Moderns, Low Riders, Rat Rods, Muscle Cars, Imports, Custom Cars & Trucks, Motorcycles & Trikes — even Tractors! Entry is $35 per vehicle (includes a Car Show T-shirt). New this year: DJ, Bouncy Houses, and Face Painting.
Event chairs are confirming details. Check back for updates as we get closer to the festival.
AquaRun
Chair: Connor
Cornhole Tournament
Rotary / Chamber
Sidewalk Chalk Art
Bring your own chalk!
Entertainment & Live Music
Chair: Ron Stubbs • Band names TBA
Shuttle Service
Ken (Ebenezer) • Rickelle (Senior Center)
Bouncy Houses
TBA
Want to be part of the fun? Volunteer, become a vendor, or sponsor the festival!
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