• The Tri-City Water Follies marks its 60th anniversary this year, having grown from a small-town dream in 1966 to a major summer event drawing over 65,000 fans

• The weekend celebration pumps nearly $3 million into the local economy and features hydroplane racing, air shows, and the return of the historic Gold Cup trophy

• More than 700 volunteers power the event, which runs July 25-27 along the Columbia River waterfront

KENNEWICK, Wash. — The Columbia River is preparing for one of the summer's biggest celebrations as the Tri-City Water Follies turns 60 this year, marking six decades of a legacy that began with just a handful of visionaries and a dream to bring hydroplane racing to the Northwest.

What started in 1966 as a small-town dream to bring unlimited hydroplanes to Eastern Washington has evolved into a thunderous weekend that draws more than 65,000 fans to the waterfront every July. For many in the Tri-Cities, the roar of hydroplane engines has become the defining sound of summer.

"This is a family event. My dad never missed a boat race here in all the years of his life. With him bringing me to the Water Follies since I was born, I can tell you that a Stephens has never missed one. This is 60 years for my family," said one longtime race fan, highlighting the generational appeal of the event.