Inaugural Red Cedar River Regatta Celebrates the Opening of Michigan’s Newest State Water Trail

Meridian Township, along with regional jurisdictions and partner organizations, will host the inaugural Red Cedar River Regatta, a community celebration marking the official opening of the Red Cedar River as a newly designated Michigan State Water Trail.

WHAT: The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a community paddle, educational activities on river ecology, and family-friendly entertainment at stops along the Red Cedar River.

WHO: The event is open to the public. To participate in the paddle, each individual must register online at https://bit.ly/RedCedarRiverRegatta. Registration is required prior to the event day, and more information about the routes is available at the registration link.

WHEN: Saturday, May 16, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; *ribbon cutting to occur at 9:00 am.

WHERE: McCormick Park (123 High Street, Williamston)

WHY: This designation recognizes the Red Cedar River as a valuable natural and recreational asset for mid-Michigan. The regatta highlights multi-jurisdictional collaboration to expand outdoor recreation, improve water access, and promote stewardship of the river corridor.

This event is being hosted by the Williamston Rotary Club and the Haslett-Okemos Rotary Club, and is sponsored by Williamston, Williamstown Township, Michigan State University, City of Lansing, City of Lansing Parks and Recreation, Meridian Township, Meridian Township Parks and Recreation, Lansing Oar & Paddle Club, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds (MGROW), and Michigan Waterways Stewards.