Make plans to kick off River Rat Paddle Challenge weekend with a free community celebration in Downtown West Monroe!
River Rats & Food Truck Eats will feature live music from Nashville recording artist Jeremiah Richey on Friday, September 18, from 5–7 p.m. at Alley Park.
The event is free and open to everyone. Food trucks and spirits will be available on-site, so bring your family and friends—and don’t forget a chair if you want to guarantee yourself a seat. Of course, sitting may be optional once the music starts! 🩵🎶🤘
Event Details
📅 Friday, September 18, 2026
⏰ 5–7 p.m.
📍 Alley Park, 250 Trenton Street, Downtown West Monroe
🎟️ Free and open to all
🎶 Live music from Jeremiah Richey
🚚 Food trucks and spirits on-site
🪑 Bring a chair
Questions about River Beats & Food Truck Eats can be sent to alafrance@westmonroe.la.gov.
We Love Our River Rats!
The fun continues the following morning with the annual River Rat Paddle Challenge on Saturday, September 19.
As one of the largest paddling events in Louisiana, the River Rat Paddle Challenge is expected to bring roughly 200 kayakers to the Ouachita River. Participants will paddle their way down the river before finishing at Lazarre Park.
Whether you are an experienced kayaker, trying the challenge for the first time or simply want to cheer from dry land, this annual event is a wonderful way to celebrate the natural beauty of Northeast Louisiana.
Paddling for a Purpose
The River Rat Paddle Challenge is more than a day of fun on the water. Proceeds benefit two local nonprofits doing meaningful work in our community:
- The Academy of Collaborative Education, also known as ACE, is a specialty public charter school serving children with autism spectrum disorder.
- The Kiroli Foundation supports Kiroli Park and works to create more opportunities for families to enjoy West Monroe’s parks and outdoor spaces.
Ready to Become a River Rat?
Registration and additional paddle information are available at RiverRatPaddleChallenge.com.
Start the weekend with music and food trucks on Friday night, then head to the Ouachita River on Saturday to paddle or cheer on the River Rats. It is two days of local fun, community spirit and support for organizations making Northeast Louisiana an even better place for children and families.
