Grab your swimsuits and sunscreen for two full days of fun activities and water sports at the annual FUNC (Fun on the Uncompahgre) Fest!

August 12 and 13, 2023, will be packed with something exhilarating for everyone. “This event is for all community members who love water, music and the Western Slope. There are different age groups for each water competition ranging from ages 12 to 112,” says Katie Schroer, pavilion and community events manager with the City of Montrose.

“Water sports competitions include the Riverbottom Downriver Race, Western Slope River Surf Competition, FUNC-y Kayak Rodeo, the Mighty Unc Kayak and SUP Cross and the Start Here Paddle Everywhere Community Floating Parade. We will have great prizes and a cash purse for competitors! And if you are not interested in competing you can still bring your river gear and just play. For landlubbers there will be a beer garden, food truck village, kids’ activities and live acts during water competitions. Also, we are excited to host a Celebration Concert at the Montrose Rotary Amphitheater starting around 6 p.m. on Saturday with an opening act from Dave’s Fault Band and Paisley Park Prince Cover Band as the headliner.”

Expect to enjoy some of Colorado’s finest views and aquatics at the Montrose Water Sports Park located on the Uncompahgre River. One of the largest water parks in the state, it consists of 1,000 feet of river channel and is designed with all Coloradans in mind — from ankle waders to expert kayakers. There is even an ADA-accessible ramp down to the water. Boasting a leisurely run with natural obstacles, the Uncompahgre River is an enticing destination for water sports enthusiasts through late summer. Sustained irrigation flows from the Gunnison Tunnel Diversion — which connects flows through the South Canal — ensure that water levels remain consistent throughout the season after other rivers have lost their luster.

Everyone can delight in the water and beach areas, plus the food trucks, vendors and live music at FUNC Fest guarantee that even spectators will have a wonderful time surrounded by joy and nature. When packing your bag for FUNC Fest, be sure to bring sun protection, water toys — such as fly rods, river boards and life jackets — a chair and/or blanket for the concert and hydration. If you’re planning to participate in one of the water sports competitions, bring your own equipment, including the required helmet and life jacket.

If you’re making a trip to Montrose for FUNC Fest, you can be sure it will be a memorable Western Slope experience. With hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, scenic drives and a variety of cultural experiences to amplify your visit, a trip to Montrose is the perfect way to close out the summer.

“This year’s FUNC Fest is going to be the best yet! There will be two days of fun instead of one, which means more opportunities to compete, connect and celebrate beautiful Colorado,” Schroer emphasizes.

FUNC Fest is entirely free to the public; those planning on competing must only pay a small entry fee.

Learn more at visitmontrose.com.

This spotlight is a sponsored partnership.

Get FUNC-y: Fun On The Uncompahgre At Montrose Water Sports Park