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Calling All Young Adventurers: Gaston County's Kid-Friendly Events

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Melissa McCauley
- Feb 5
- 3 min read

Tuck Fest a multi-day festival at the Whitewater Center

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping weekend filled with outdoor thrills, live music, and competitions. Tuck Fest returns to the Whitewater Center on April 19-21, 2024. This three-day celebration of the outdoor lifestyle is a must-attend event for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, drawing a crowd of 40,000 people each year.

Tuck Fest at Whitewater: Now in its 11th year!

Unleash the Thrill

Pro Competitions

Tuck Fest 2024 takes the excitement to new heights this year, with three marquee competitions featuring professional athletes by invitation only all vying for a staggering $35,000 in cash purses. From the pulse-pounding Dirty Crit on Friday to the awe-inspiring Deep Water Solo on Saturday and the adrenaline-fueled Boatercross on Sunday, prepare to witness the best in the business showcasing their skills. Each of these pro competitions will offer a wildcard application open to the general public.

DIRTY CRIT

FRIDAY, APRIL 19 | 6 PM

This spin on the classic criterium bike race takes racers around the Center and into the woods on singletrack. Because of this course's variety of terrain and unique features, the challenge begins before racers even reach the starting line as they carefully decide which bike style will race best to capture the $15,000 cash purse.

DEEP WATER SOLO

SATURDAY, APRIL 20 | 4:30 PM

Two climbers at a time, racing head-to-head to the top of the 45-foot Deep Water Solo wall, and the winner from each matchup moves on to the next round in this single elimination bracket, all competing for $15,000 in cash!

BOATERCROSS

SUNDAY, APRIL 21 | 12 PM

This bracket-style whitewater kayak race runs through the Competition Channel's class III and IV rapids. Athletes compete in heats of three or four, with the top two finishers moving on to the next round in each heat. The course requires athletes to navigate gates and complete the channel as fast as possible for a $5,000 cash purse.

A Festival for Everyone

Citizen Competitions

For those who crave adventure, a one-time registration fee will unlock access to a myriad of competitions throughout the weekend. From the thrilling Dirty Crit and Deep Water Solo to the family-friendly Dog Jog and 5K Trail Race, there's something for every age and skill level. With over 25 competitions, Tuck Fest ensures that everyone can participate in the action.

Fun for All

Daily yoga practices, educational clinics, and a Vendor Village featuring over 60 outdoor industry brands ensure there will never be a dull moment.

A Weekend of Adventure

Plan Your Day

Tuck Fest kicks off Friday afternoon and continues through Sunday evening, with live music, races, competitions, clinics, and yoga seamlessly woven into the schedule. To make the most of your experience, review the detailed schedule and map available on the Festival Map page a month before the event.

Tickets and Add-Ons:

The best part? Tuck Fest is free to attend! While standard parking fees apply, you can enjoy music, spectate competitions, and participate in various activities without additional cost. If you want to compete, a single flat fee grants you access to every competition over the weekend (excluding Pro Comps). Activity passes for rafting, ziplining, flatwater SUP, and more are available all weekend.

For those seeking a premium experience, contact Group Sales to rent the Terrace for catered meals, a private bar, and private bathrooms, providing a front-row seat to the live music and festivities.

Parking and Arrival

Plan to arrive early and be aware of peak traffic times to ensure a seamless arrival. Consider ride-sharing options, with a designated drop-off point just a half-mile walk from the main facility. CMPD manages traffic, so monitor potential reroutes during peak hours to avoid congestion.

Accommodations

For those eager to immerse themselves in the heart of the action, Gaston County offers convenient accommodations, with hotels in Mount Holly and Belmont being the closest to the Whitewater Center. Booking your stay in these areas ensures you're just moments away from the excitement, allowing you to maximize your Tuck Fest experience.

Tuck Fest at Whitewater Center 2024

Take advantage of the opportunity to spend a lifetime at Tuck Fest 2024. Book your stay in Gaston County, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to dive into an unforgettable weekend celebrating the great outdoors!