Thru the Chute - New Braunfels annual cardboard boat race

Competitors launch their handmade vessels through the Chute as spectators cheer them on!

The annual "Thru the Chute" cardboard boat race in New Braunfels was held today and we had front-row seats at the Float In. This is an event filled with laughter, community spirit, and unforgettable memories. This beloved New Braunfels event invites families, friends, and adventurous souls to channel their inner engineers and craft seaworthy vessels from cardboard and duct tape. As you cheer on these homemade marvels racing down the chute, you'll be part of a heartwarming celebration of teamwork and imagination. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, this family-friendly activity is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant local culture and make new connections in the community.

Discover the Thru the Chute Excitement

Get ready for an unforgettable day of family fun and community spirit as we dive into the thrilling world of the Thru the Chute cardboard boat race in New Braunfels.

What is Thru the Chute?

Thru the Chute is an annual cardboard boat race that has become a beloved tradition in New Braunfels, Texas. This unique event challenges participants to build seaworthy vessels using cardboard.

The race takes place on the Comal River, where teams navigate their homemade boats through a the city tube chute. It's a test of creativity, engineering skills, and teamwork.

Spectators line the riverbanks, cheering on the brave sailors as they attempt to keep their cardboard creations afloat. The event combines the thrill of competition with the joy of watching some boats (un)gracefully glide through the chute, while some boats disintegrate mid-race.

New Braunfels Events for Families

New Braunfels offers a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, with Thru the Chute being a standout favorite. These events showcase the city's commitment to fostering community spirit and providing entertainment for all ages.

From seasonal festivals to outdoor concerts, there's always something happening in this vibrant Texas town. Many events celebrate the area's rich German heritage, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors and locals alike.

New Braunfels' family events often incorporate the natural beauty of the region, with activities centered around the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers. This blend of nature, culture, and community makes New Braunfels a perfect destination for family outings and memory-making adventures.

Participating in the Thru the Chute cardboard boat race is an experience like no other. Teams of all ages and skill levels come together to showcase their boat-building prowess and compete for glory on the Comal River.

To join the race, you'll need to gather your team, design your boat, and register for the event. The rules are simple: your boat must be made primarily of cardboard.

The race day atmosphere is electric, with teams showing off their creative designs and clever team names. Whether you're in it to win or just for the fun of it, participating in Thru the Chute is sure to create lasting memories for you and your family.

Planning Your Family Day Out

Attending the Thru the Chute event requires some preparation to ensure you make the most of this exciting day. Here's what you need to know to plan your family outing. The most important is to arrive early.

Making the Most of the Experience

To truly embrace the Thru the Chute spirit, dive into the community aspect of the event and unleash your creativity in boat building.

Tips for Building Your Boat for next year

Creating a cardboard boat that's both sturdy and speedy requires careful planning and execution. Here are some expert tips to help you build a winning vessel:

Choose the right cardboard: Opt for thick, corrugated cardboard with minimal pre-existing folds or creases. The sturdier the cardboard, the better your boat will hold up in the water.

Waterproof strategically: While you can't completely waterproof cardboard, you can use duct tape to reinforce key areas like the bottom and sides of your boat.

Design for stability: A wider base and lower center of gravity will help prevent tipping. Consider a catamaran-style design for added stability.

Test before race day: Do a trial run in a pool or calm body of water to identify and fix any weak spots in your design.

Remember, creativity counts too! Don't be afraid to add fun design elements that showcase your team's personality.

Engaging with the Community

The Thru the Chute event is as much about community bonding as it is about the race itself. Here's how you can fully immerse yourself in the experience:

Cheer on other teams: Even if you're not racing, supporting other participants creates a positive atmosphere for everyone..

Share your experience: Use event hashtags to share your photos and stories on social media. It helps spread the word and keeps the excitement going long after the event ends.

By fully engaging with the community aspects of Thru the Chute, you'll create lasting connections and memories that extend far beyond race day.

PS - PARK LEGALLY. The city tow trucks were circling like vultures today.