This past weekend, the Miami Springs River Cities Regatta proved something many in our
community had been hoping for: the spirit of the festival is not only alive—it’s evolving in
the right direction.
From the moment opening ceremonies began, it was clear this year’s Regatta had a renewed
sense of identity. Jorge Santin set the tone early, doing an excellent job commanding the
microphone and guiding the kickoff with energy and professionalism. Behind the scenes, the
event was masterfully organized by Lynne Brooks and Tom Hutchings, whose efforts
ensured a smooth and engaging start to what would become a memorable weekend.
One of the most meaningful moments came during the ceremonies when Tom Curtis was
recognized for his decades of contributions to the event—dating back to its earlier days as
the River Cities Festival. It was a well-deserved acknowledgment and a reminder of the
deep roots this celebration has in the community. Seeing that appreciation shared publicly
resonated with many in attendance.
The weekend officially got rolling with a performance by John Rhodes, whose presence
helped set the tone for what felt like a true return to form. This year’s Regatta didn’t just
feel like an event—it felt like the River Cities Festival again.
In recent years, the festival had taken on a different character, leaning heavily into food
trucks and inflatable attractions. While those elements have their place, this year marked a
noticeable shift back toward tradition: classic kiddie rides, local vendors in their booths,
and a more immersive, hometown atmosphere that reflected Miami Springs at its best.
That spirit was especially evident around the Circle, where community staples and new
additions blended seamlessly. The ever-popular Lions Club booth returned, serving up their
famous corn, with longtime contributors like “Scoop” Bill Daley and Debbie Robertson
continuing their tradition of service. Their presence, as always, was a cornerstone of the
event.
Nearby, a petting zoo offered families a hands-on experience with goats and lambs—an
addition that proved to be a hit with younger attendees. Just steps away, the mechanical bull
brought a different kind of excitement, drawing crowds eager to test their balance and
bravery.
Live music once again played a central role in the weekend’s success. Ray Anton curated a
strong lineup on Canal Street, highlighted by a standout performance from his band, Out of
the Ashes. Their set was electric—one of those moments that reminds you how powerful
live music can be in bringing a community together.
Reunions added another layer of nostalgia and connection, as graduates of Miami Springs
Senior High gathered in large numbers, reconnecting and celebrating shared memories. It
was one of many reminders that the Regatta is more than an event—it’s a touchstone for
generations.
Another meaningful initiative came from Leonard Real Estate, who invited attendees to sign
a banner that will be preserved in a Boy Scouts time capsule. It was a simple but powerful
way to capture a moment in time for future generations.
Local businesses also stepped up in a big way. Uncle Hanks’ Hideaway brought energy,
personality, and plenty of flavor to the festivities. From engaging with attendees to serving
up crowd-pleasing favorites, the team made a strong impression—capped off by earning the
2026 Judges’ Choice award at the Chili Cook-Off.
While overall attendance may have been slightly lower than in years past, the consensus
among those who were there was clear: the vibe was exactly where it needed to be.
“This felt like the Regatta again,” one attendee remarked. “It had heart.”
Events like this don’t come together without dedicated leadership and countless volunteer
hours. Special recognition goes to Lynne Brooks, Tom Hutchings, Lygia Turman, and
Barbara Poorman, along with the many others working behind the scenes who made this
year’s Regatta possible. Their efforts did more than produce a successful weekend—they
helped reset the direction of the festival for years to come.
If this year is any indication, the River Cities Regatta is not just back—it’s moving forward
with purpose.
And for Miami Springs, that’s something worth celebrating.
