By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

The Berlin Chamber of Commerce is gearing up to host the 35th annual Berlin Bathtub Races, where participants will zoom their bathtub-inspired vehicles down Main Street for the chance to secure bragging rights.

This year, the creative and competitive tradition will be held on Friday, June 20, on Main Street in downtown Berlin. A parade of the homemade tubs will begin at 6 p.m., with races to follow, kicking off at around 6:15 p.m.

Each year, the Berlin Bathtub Races provide local businesses with a fun advertising method, as they hitch up their modified, road-capable bathtub and compete against their neighbors in a series of heats. The winner receives bragging rights for their speed and style, and their name is added to the trophy, known as the Turner Cup.

The winning trophy is a tribute to the late Jesse Turner, the former owner of the Main Street repair business, the Berlin Shoe Box. Turner helped get the races off the ground and actively participated in the tradition, coming up victorious on several occasions.

Community members are encouraged to crowd the sidelines and watch as the racers dart downtown. During the contest, food vendors will be available for attendees to pick up dinner and snacks. The chamber will also be selling event T-shirts and conducting its annual 50/50 raffle drawing.

“The Bathtub Races are a one-of-a-kind, high-energy event that brings the community together for a night of fun and friendly competition,” the Berlin Chamber of Commerce’s website reads. “Participants race creatively designed, bathtub-inspired vehicles down Main Street, competing for speed, style, and bragging rights. Whether you’re a racer or a spectator, there’s plenty of excitement with themed races, team costumes, and laughter.”

For more information about the Berlin Bathtub Races, visit https://berlinchamber.org/event/bathtub-races/.