Ely’s Aquafest is less than two months away – and it is still possible to enter the famous raft race and book a stall.  

The event will be celebrating its 43rd year and will take place on Sunday, July 2 across Lavender Green and Jubilee Gardens between 11am and 5pm. 

And of course, teams will be racing along the River Great Ouse in their quirky homemade rafts.  

Ely Standard: Aquafest 2023 will take place on Sunday, July 2. Aquafest 2023 will take place on Sunday, July 2. (Image: Aquafest)

Michael Judkins, a member of the event’s organising committee, said: “There will be a mixture of attractions again this year – something for all the family. 

“The annual raft race is always a highlight. Teams from across the community take part, some go as far as dressing up or customising their raft to represent their business or club. It’s a lot of fun. 

“There will also be stalls, funfair rides, food and drink outlets as well as live music and entertainment, featuring local musicians.  

“So much is planned, it really is one of the key dates in the diary for Ely.” 

Ely Standard: Teams can still enter Aquafest's famous raft race.Teams can still enter Aquafest's famous raft race. (Image: Aquafest)

Aquafest is organised by Ely’s two Rotary Clubs: the Rotary Club of Ely and the Ely Hereward Rotary Club. 

Monies raised from the event are then donated to charitable causes locally.  

Mr Judkins added: “It means an event for the community is also put back into the community. 

"We’re also grateful for sponsorship, with this year’s main sponsor being Cambridge Commodities and we also have Redrow and EMG Motors on board.” 

Further information can be found on the Aquafest Facebook and website. 

Visit www.faceboook.com/elyaquafest and www.elyaquafest.org.uk for more information. 

Charities can book a place for their stall for £21. For commercial stalls, the price is £47.50.  

  • Enquiries and entries for the raft race should contact richard.maxey@cantab.net 
  • Stalls on Jubilee Gardens are being handled by Michael Judkins at michael.j.judkins@gmail.com. Those interested Lavender Green stalls should contact richard_j_tyler@hotmail.com.  
  • For all other enquiries contact Viv Doji, Aquafest Committee Chair at vclariced@hotmail.com.