Road And River Closures Planned For Cool Desert Nights And Richland Regatta This Weekend - Saturday Closures For Cool Desert Nights Updated (Photo) - 06/24/26
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Increased traffic in downtown and waterfront areas
- Temporary road and river closures
- Delays near event venues and parking areas
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for temporary road, river and boat launch closures associated with two popular community events taking place this weekend, June 26–28: Cool Desert Nights and the Richland Regatta.
These events are expected to attract thousands of attendees to Richland's waterfront, parks, and downtown areas. Motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians should anticipate increased traffic and temporary access restrictions throughout the weekend.
COOL DESERT NIGHTS
Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27
Cool Desert Nights will kick off Friday the 26th with Party in the Park, 5:30 p.m. at John Dam Plaza; hosted by the City of Richland and featuring food vendors. This will be followed by the famous Cool Desert Nights Cruise from 6-7 p.m., and then a free live concert back on John Dam Plaza by Free Agent in John Dam Plaza.
Cruise Route and Road Closures
Friday, June 26
Temporary road closures will be in place from approximately 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to accommodate the Cool Desert Nights Cruise.
Affected roadways include:
• George Washington Way between Knight Street and Symons Street
• Swift Boulevard between George Washington Way and Jadwin Avenue
• Jadwin Avenue between Swift Boulevard and Knight Street
• Knight Street between Jadwin Avenue and George Washington Way
The cruise will begin in the Federal Building/City Hall parking lot and travel through downtown Richland and the Uptown area.
Additionally, a section of the Uptown Parking lot will be closed for the cruise from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and a portion of Jadwin Avenue between Mansfield Street and Knight Street will remain closed until approximately 9:00 p.m. for the duration of the Party in the Park concert at John Dam Plaza.
Saturday, June 27
George Washington Way will be closed from 4:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. between Symons Street and Williams Blvd. In addition, sections of the parking lot at the Uptown will be closed from 4:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All vehicles remaining after 4:00 a.m. will be towed.
Motorists should expect delays and use alternate routes whenever possible.
RICHLAND REGATTA
Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28
The Richland Regatta returns to the Columbia River waterfront with two days of hydroplane racing, food vendors, family activities, and spectator viewing opportunities. To support event operations and ensure public safety, portions of the riverfront trail system and nearby roadways will be temporarily restricted throughout the weekend.
Trail users should expect detours near Howard Amon Park and designated event viewing areas. Event staff and signage will direct pedestrians and cyclists around restricted areas.
Additional details regarding specific trail impacts and parking information will be posted as they become available.
River and Trail Closures (including boat launches, swim areas, etc. No river access)
The Columbia River racecourse area will be closed to recreational river traffic daily from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, June 27–28, 2026.
View the USCG Local Notice to Mariners: https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/lnms/lnm13222026.pdf
PLAN AHEAD
Residents visiting the waterfront, attending community events, or traveling through central Richland are encouraged to:
• Allow extra travel time
• Follow posted detour signs
• Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and event traffic
• Utilize designated parking areas
• Consider alternate routes during peak event hours
The City of Richland appreciates the community's patience as these events bring visitors, tourism, and economic activity to the city while providing opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy two of Richland's signature summer traditions.
For Cool Desert Nights event information, visit www.richlandchamber.org/cool-desert-nights.
For Richland Regatta information and event updates, visit https://www.nwpba.com/.
For questions regarding City services or closures associated with these events, contact Richland Parks & Public Facilities at 509-942-7529.
