The Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championship roars back to life July 18th-20th, bringing world-class racing excitement to the historic Mississippi River waterfront. This spectacular three-day event promises non-stop thrills for racing fans of all ages with high speed boats, incredible entertainment, and lasting memories waiting to be made. Tim Seebold, Managing Director of the Formula 1 Powerboat Championship Series, sums up the weekend in three words: “Speed, Spray, and Fun.”
The Alton Midwest Nationals showcases the best of North American powerboat racing, with a variety of elite F1 speed machines tearing across a specially designed course on the mighty Mississippi. Seebold promises the weekend is sure to be full of “Family friendly fun, with adrenaline-filled, deck-to-deck racing excitement set in a festival atmosphere.” What makes this event truly remarkable is its deep connection to Alton’s racing heritage.
World-Class Powerboat Racing Hits Historic Alton This Summer
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Speed, Spray, and Fun.
The historic river city has been hosting powerboat competitions since 1894, making it one of America’s original river racing destinations. “Alton has everything we could wish for to ensure a fantastic event,” explains Seebold. “Most importantly, the elevated viewing area and the open pit area are key game-changing fan experience benefits.”This year marks the second year powerboat racing has returned to the Mississippi River since the early 1990s; last year’s inaugural return drew over 20,000 spectators who witnessed history in the making.
This year promises to be even bigger and better, with three days of pure adrenaline that starts with a free Kickoff Meet and Greet Street party on Friday night at Mac’s Downtown. Chat with drivers, get an up-close look at the boats, and enjoy live music under the stars. According to Seebold, it’s the perfect way to dive into the action. “This is when the fans can come and mingle with the drivers to get photos and autographs, see the boats up close while talking with the teams to learn more about them. Mac's will have live entertainment on hand along with vendors and official merchandise from the F1 series and the Alton event. You may even get to sit in one of these rocket ships!”
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Family friendly fun, with adrenaline-filled, deck-to-deck racing excitement set in a festival atmosphere.
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This summer, get ready for heart-pounding action on America’s greatest river!
Beyond the racing action, the event features vendor displays, comfortable bleacher seating in general admission areas, premium VIP experiences, delicious food options, and live music throughout the weekend. Whether you're a longtime racing enthusiast or discovering the sport for the first time, there’s something undeniably magical about watching these incredible racers push their machines to the limit.
This championship weekend is the perfect chance for an unforgettable adventure in Alton. This charming city is rich with history and culture, offering endless ways to maximize your stay, from sunrise on the riverfront to local charm long after the sun goes down. Stand beneath the towering statue of the World’s Tallest Man in Upper Alton, or pay respects to jazz legend Miles Davis at his downtown monument. Follow Abraham Lincoln’s footsteps through this city where he spent many nights and participated in historic debates, or trace the courageous journeys of Underground Railroad freedom seekers who found rescue here.
Saturday and Sunday deliver the main event, with pulse-pounding race heats that culminate in a championship presentation Sunday afternoon.
For outdoor lovers, Alton really delivers, with championship golf courses, expansive parks, and miles of scenic trails along the glorious Mississippi riverfront. And if you’re intrigued by the supernatural, Alton offers spine-tingling ghost tours to chill and delight. Explore the infamous McPike Mansion, or discover other paranormally active locations that have earned Alton its reputation as America’s Most Haunted Small Town.
With over 60 restaurants calling Alton home, your taste buds are in for a treat. Whether it’s delicious pastries at a local coffee shop, authentic international cuisine, fine dining, or inventive menus from up and coming local chefs, Alton has something for every palate and occasion. Beer lovers are in luck as well - Old Bakery Beer Company is one of the nation’s few certified organic craft breweries, serving up premium brews that pair beautifully with their tasty food menu.
Visit the official Championship website for complete event details, and grab your tickets before they’re gone. You won’t want to miss one minute of the action!
buy tickets now
By Ryann Swift on June 16, 2025
- Tim Seebold, Managing Director
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Downtown Alton’s antique district offers treasure hunting galore, while locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops ensure you’ll find keepsakes that you’ll cherish. Whether you’re seeking vintage finds, unique gifts, or simply enjoying the local charm, Alton provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable weekend. And with over 400 rooms available throughout the area, you’ll be sure to find accommodations that are a perfect fit for your budget and preference. Many properties welcome pets, feature swimming pools, and provide flexible booking options to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
The Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championship is more than just a sporting event - it’s a celebration of speed, skill, and the timeless allure of America’s greatest river. With world-class racing action, family-friendly activities, and the rich backdrop of historic Alton, this weekend promises memories that will last you and your family a lifetime. “Seeing family, friends, and fans at our hometown event is always the greatest,” says Seebold. “I love the fact that we get to share with them what 3 generations of my family have spent their lives doing.”
By Monica Vanover on June 12, 2025
The Alton Midwest Nationals Powerboat Championship roars back to life July 18th-20th, bringing world-class racing excitement to the historic Mississippi River waterfront. This spectacular three-day event promises non-stop thrills for racing fans of all ages with high speed boats, incredible entertainment, and lasting memories waiting to be made. Tim Seebold, Managing Director of the Formula 1 Powerboat Championship Series, sums up the weekend in three words: “Speed, Spray, and Fun.”
The Alton Midwest Nationals showcases the best of North American powerboat racing, with a variety of elite F1 speed machines tearing across a specially designed course on the mighty Mississippi. Seebold promises the weekend is sure to be full of “Family friendly fun, with adrenaline-filled, deck-to-deck racing excitement set in a festival atmosphere.” What makes this event truly remarkable is its deep connection to Alton’s racing heritage.
This summer, get ready for heart-pounding action on America’s greatest river!
Visit the official Championship website for complete event details, and grab your tickets before they’re gone. You won’t want to miss one minute of the action!
buy tickets now
