TugFest is More Than Just Rope

TugFest is the ultimate tug of war across the Mississippi River. Iowans and Illinoisans pick up their end of the rope and try to pull the other side to ground. It's a simple premise.

However, TugFest isn't just ropes and brute strength. Before and after the competition rivals can come together to experience all the other fun the festival has to offer, including live music each night.

From Thursday, Aug. 8 to Saturday, Aug. 10, TugFest's schedule is packed with activities for every family member to enjoy. On Thursday, there is free admission to the carnival and vendors, with Bingo happening the whole evening and a bags tournament starting at 6:30 p.m.

On Friday, the evening begins with a community tailgating party followed by a parade through LeClaire. More carnival rides, fair food, and games continue until 9:30 p.m, which is when the famous fireworks show starts. Watching fireworks over the river is an amazing sight and is something everyone in the QC area should experience at least once in his or her life.

Saturday, the day of "The Tug", starts out bright and early with a community breakfast at 7 a.m. followed by a 5K run/walk. The kid's tug of war starts at 11 a.m., while the main Iowa (LeClaire) and Illinois (Port Byron) teams put their strength to the test from 12:30 p.m. to mid-afternoon. Whether you cheer for Illinois or Iowa, it's sure to be a nail-biting experience to the very end!

After the awards ceremony, if your arms aren't totally jello, try your luck at an arm wrestling tournament. And, like previous nights, end the evening with live music performances.

While some might just picture a rope dangling across the Mississippi when they think of TugFest, it is much more than that. It's a competition, carnival, 5K, parade AND fireworks show. The all volunteer-run event will also be giving back to the community by donating $2 from every TugFest T-shirt sale to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Plus, the winning side gets bragging rights for the next year! Get out to TugFest and cheer on your team! You also can register for the 5K and volunteer right on the website at tugfest.com.