Mardi Gras on the River

Whitewater rafting is an exciting and thrilling adventure that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. One of the most beloved traditions of whitewater rafting on multiday river adventures is costume night, a fun and festive event that typically takes place on the last night of the trip.

Costume night is a time for rafters to let loose and have fun, dressing up in costumes that range from silly to elaborate. The costumes can be inspired by anything from pop culture to historical figures, and the creativity and imagination of the rafters knows no bounds. Some common costumes include superheroes, movie characters, and famous historical figures, while others may choose to dress up as animals or even fictional creatures.

The origins of costume night on whitewater rafting trips is unclear, but it is believed to have started as a way for rafters to bond and have fun together after a long and challenging day on the water. It has since become an integral part of the whitewater rafting experience, and many outfitters now include costume night as a regular part of their trips with the guides accumulating a mass of costume pieces to share with the group. Raft trip regulars spend the year figuring out the trips perfect costume to surprise the group with.

The evening typically begins with appetizers followed by dinner. After dinner, the costumes come out, and the fun begins. Everyone is encouraged to participate, and even the guides often get in on the action. The costumes are usually judged by the guides, with prizes given out for the most creative and well-executed costumes.

The atmosphere on costume night is one of laughter and camaraderie, as rafters’ bond over their shared love of the outdoors and the thrill of whitewater rafting. The costumes add an element of playfulness and lightheartedness to the evening, and it is a time for everyone to let their hair down and have a good time.

One of the most popular elements of costume night is the group photo, where everyone gathers in their costumes for a group photo that will be treasured for years to come. The group photo is a reminder of the memories made and the friendships formed on the whitewater rafting trip, and it is a cherished keepsake for many rafters.

Costume night is not just for adults, either. Many outfitters welcome children on their trips, and they are often just as excited about costume night as the adults. Children often come up with creative and imaginative costumes, and they add a special energy to the evening.

The last night of a whitewater rafting trip is always bittersweet, as the rafters have to say goodbye to the river and their new friends. Costume night serves to celebrate the memories made and the friendships formed, and it is a fitting end to an unforgettable adventure.

In conclusion, costume night is a beloved tradition on river rafting trips that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. It serves as a way for rafters to bond and have fun together after a long and challenging day on the water, and it adds an element of playfulness and lightheartedness to the evening. The costumes, the riverside dinner, the group photo, the laughter and camaraderie make costume night an unforgettable experience that will be treasured for years to come.