White Trash Bash

The 21st Annual White Trash Bash returns to the Illinois River near East Peoria, Illinois, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, bringing boaters together for one of Central Illinois’ best-known summer gatherings on the water.

The informal boat party is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Participants will arrive by boat to anchor, beach their vessels, raft up with neighboring crews and spend the afternoon socializing along the river.

Unlike a traditional poker run or organized boating competition, the White Trash Bash is centered around the boats, music and party atmosphere. The event does not include a published route, card stops or formal registration process.

Previous editions of the gathering have taken place near the Paradice Beach area, also commonly referred to as Paradice Beach, along the East Peoria side of the Illinois River. The exact 2026 gathering point has not been clearly published, so boaters should review the latest event updates before launching or traveling to the area.

The gathering is promoted as a 21-and-older event. No admission fee, official ending time, entertainment schedule or recommended launch location has been publicly announced.

Boaters should prepare for crowded conditions and increased traffic near the gathering area. Proper life jackets, anchors, dock lines and boat fenders are recommended, especially for crews planning to raft with other vessels. Participants should also choose a designated sober operator and confirm the latest event information before heading onto the river.