SAVE THE DATE! We are happy to announce that we'll be back on the San Marcos River this summer with our friends at Austin Tour Company and Texas State Tubes for the 9th annual BIG GAY RIVER FLOAT on SUNDAY, JULY 20, 2025.
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As in previous years, floaters will have two options. The first option is for those who want to ride the bus from Austin. The second option is for those who want to drive their own vehicle. It includes tube rentals and a shuttle back to your vehicle.
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Details coming soon
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Want to become a partner for the 2025 Big Gay River Float? Email Chase Martin at
Y2hhc2UgfCB0aGVyZXB1YmxpcSAhIGNvbQ== about becoming a partner today.
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FAQs
How long is the float?
The float is 2 1/4 miles and lasts about 3 - 3 1/2 hours. The full trip will total approximately 5 - 5 1/2 hours. NOTE: Float time will vary depending on the speed of the river which will vary depending on recent rains.
What is the cutoff for online ticket sales?
Ticket sales for the bus packages will stay online until the last bus leaves or the spots sell out.
Online sales, for those arriving on their own who want to purchase the "Float Only Package - No Bus," will close when onsite registration shuts down at 4:30 PM.
Are children allowed?
The float is all ages, BUT the buses from downtown Austin are strictly 21+ only.
This means any attendees under 21 and those attendees who would like to bring their children, will need to select the "Float Only Package - No Bus" package and provide their own transportation to the float.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed on any of the buses. Dogs are allowed for those that meet us down at the drop-in point and as long as they are friendly and leashed.
What if I have my own tubes?
Our outfitter requires you to use their tubes for the float, so you will need to purchase one of the options. While you are free to bring your own tubes and floats, use them more for flair than function.
What do I do with all my stuff?
If you purchase the Full Package w/bus - Austin-San Marcos or Float Only Package - No Bus, you will have the option for bag check when you arrive at the drop-in point.
Floaters coming in on the buses will have their bags checked by their bus captains when they disembark. Floaters checking in at the drop-in point will be able to bag check at the registration tent.
What if I can't make it?
If you can't make it, reply to your confirmation email from Austin Tour Company at least 72 hours before the float start time to request a refund. Guests who need to cancel within the 72 hour of the float start time will received a credit for any of their upcoming events.
Alternatively, name changes are always permitted.
What happens if it rains?
We will only cancel the float if the outfitter deems it unsafe. This can also include if there are heavy rains the days before the float that can lead to unsafe floating conditions -- heavy runoff and debris in the water. In some cases, we may choose to delay the start of the float to avoid downpours from passing thunderstorms.
In the event that we cancel, we will announce a new date and you will have the option of having your ticket transferred to the new date or requesting a full refund.
Why did the float move from June to July?
When we started the Big Gay River Float in 2016, it was meant as a kickoff to Pride Season since Austin's pride events didn't happen until later in the summer. Since then, several of the smaller communities around Austin have started hosting their own pride events and we did not want to to detract from these events.
