Downtown Waterville is preparing for the 50th annual Roche de Boeuf Festival on Sept. 22 and 23.
Waterville’s history of “Roche de Boeuf” originated from 18th century French settlers naming a large limestone rock island in the Maumee River, where Ottawa Indians held their councils. After several spellings and pronunciations over time, the rock island is known today as Roche de Boeuf, which has the modern translation of “rock of beef” or “rock of buffalo.”
Following are some events scheduled during the festival:
Friday evening, Sept. 22
- “Run de Boeuf” 5K & 1K Kids Race. Roche de Boeuf weekend kicks off Friday evening, with “Run de Boeuf,” a 5K and 1K kids race beginning and ending at Waterville’s Memorial Park at 1 South River Road. The 1K Kids Race begins at 6 p.m., with the 5K race starting at 6:30 p.m. “Run de Boeuf” is being coordinated by Second Sole Toledo Racing Services, the City of Waterville, and Waterville’s Boy Scout Troop 101. Registration details are available at runsignup.com.
- RDB “Pre-Fest Bash” & Beatles Tribute Band. A “Pre-Fest Bash” begins at 6 p.m. at Parker Square on South River Road in downtown Waterville. Attendees can watch the “Run de Boeuf” race participants and enjoy food and beverages. From 8 to 11 p.m., the “Toppermost Beatles Tribute” band will perform. There is no entry fee for the event; however, cash only will be accepted for food and beverages. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket for use during the free concert.
Saturday, Sept. 23
- 50th Annual Roche de Boeuf Festival. This is the 50th year for the Annual Roche de Boeuf Festival to be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, throughout downtown Waterville. This annual event celebrates Waterville and its history with a day of music, food, and fun activities.
- The official RDB parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and proceeds down Farnsworth Road to River Road. The streets will be filled with local artisans and craft vendors, food trucks, and interactive experiences.
- Many other activities will be available for attendees of all ages. Inflatables, a scavenger hunt, face painting, and mascots will be featured in the children’s area. The Waterville Historical Society will provide their Haunted Waterville Horse & Trolley rides, military reenactments, and demonstrations.
- Three different bands are scheduled to perform throughout the day near the Beer Garden in Parker’s Square. Car enthusiasts can enjoy viewing a variety of specialty automobiles at the car show in the parking lot of Shawn’s Irish Tavern.
50th Annual RDB souvenir T-shirts, designed by area artist Jason Chappuies, can be purchased at the chamber’s website and will be available for sale at the information booth during the Festival. As an added convenience, a free shuttle service is available all day at Conrad Park, next to the Waterville Library, and at Waterville Landing at Michigan Avenue and Waterville-Monclova Roads.
For event details or volunteer opportunities, visit www.watervillechamber.com.
