Viva Fall River

2024 Borden Light Poker Run

May 6, 2024 | Recreation / Outdoors, Visit

Borden Light Marina is gearing up to host their 18th annual Poker Run on August 3, 2024! The event lasts for just one weekend, but the prep continues throughout the whole year. Keep reading to discover more about the summer staple event on the Fall River Waterfront.

Nicole and Michael Lund organize the Poker Run with charitable giving in mind. Just last year, $62K was raised! The proceeds were split with $31K going to Make-A-Wish Massachusetts & Rhode Island and $31k going to Tunnel to Towers, which is a New York-based organization that provides financial resources to the families of fallen or injured first-responders and military personnel. The event was a huge success, with proceeds up around $10k from 2022, and they are getting ready to make an even bigger impact at the end of this summer. 

The event is only growing in scale with more participants and big-name sponsors. With activities for everybody, the Poker Run is no doubt a family affair. Last year, around 50-60 cigarette racing boats left the harbor for the Poker Run, adding to the excitement and amazing atmosphere. 

What to expect …

If you are participating in the Poker Run, the fun starts on Friday with a VIP Captain’s Party. Great food, delicious drinks and music will get you ready for the full day of racing ahead. Saturday will start registration and brunch, followed by a Captain’s meeting. The race starts around 12:00 PM, and lasts for around 2 hours. After going through all of the checkpoints and returning back to Fall River, you can dock your boat in the Marina and enjoy some delicious food, a live auction and awards! 

Keep the party going …

Your weekend doesn’t have to end with the close of the event, so why not extend your trip and enjoy all that the city has to offer. The Fall River Waterfront is home to a number of good eats and attractions! Nicole and Michael Lund own the Marina, the Tipsy Seagull, a Key West-style seasonal outdoor floating restaurant, as well as Pier 52, an upscale waterfront restaurant with a raw bar and adirondack lawn seating overlooking the Taunton River. Other places to check out:

Canned Heat Craft Beer Co., 52 Ferry St.- featuring an impressive collection of seasonal beers on tab and available for take-away. Live music, entertaiment, and a light fare menu.

The Tipsy Toboggan, 75 Ferry St. A casual dining establishment with a fireside pub, lofted dining area and a year-round outdoor patio experience.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House , 75 Ferry Street. An old mill warehouse turned a hatchet throwing adventure for adults of all ages!

Get Involved …

For questions about participation or sponsorship, email blmpokerrun@gmail.com

Looking for a visual of what’s to come?

The Florida Powerboat Club has a full episode dedicated to the 2023 Borden Light Marina Charity Poker Run. Watch the video to immerse yourself in the fun atmosphere and get excited for this summer’s event.

*Photos courtesy of the Borden Light Marina Charity Poker Run Facebook Page