Every summer, the Lake of the Ozarks comes alive with the thunder of roaring engines and the thrill of high-speed competition during the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout—the largest unsanctioned boat race in the country. Celebrating its 37th year in 2025, the Shootout draws powerboat enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the nation to witness incredible boats racing at jaw-dropping speeds, all while raising money for local charities. It’s more than just a race—it’s a week-long lakefront celebration filled with events, entertainment, and unforgettable memories.
🛶 Prelude to High‑Speed Action: Events Leading Up to Race Week
The Shootout community is buzzing well before the engines fire up. Be sure to checkout these events during the week leading up to the big races:
- Shootout on the Strip Street Party (August 20, Bagnell Dam Strip)
Street-style party filled with powerboats, tunes, food, and vendor booths—an ideal kickoff for the week. - Shootout Showcase Demo Day (August 21, Dog Days Bar & Grill)
A hands-on boat showcase running from 10 AM–4 PM. Meet manufacturers, test ride performance boats, and dive into marine tech. - Poly Lift Poker Run (August 22, Performance Boat Center to Shady Gators)
A scenic tour collecting playing cards along the way as you cruise with friends—fun meets friendly competition.
🚤 Race Weekend: 37th Annual Shootout
Dates: Saturday & Sunday, August 23–24, 2025
Location: Dog Days Bar & Grill on the Grand Glaize Arm, Osage Beach
Featured Highlights:
- Largest unsanctioned powerboat race in the U.S.
Known for raw speed, fierce competition, and unforgettable adrenaline. - New race course near the Grand Glaize Bridge
A wider, safer ¾-mile stretch has been selected at the 2-mile mark on the Grand Glaize Arm, improving spectator access along docks and the shoreline.
Saturday Evening: “Rock the Dock”
Join the post-race dock party at Dog Days Bar & Grill—with live music, food, drinks, and community spirit.
🎯 Who Should Attend & Why It’s Special
- Racing fanatics: Feel the throttle, the roar, and the spray—there’s nothing like it.
- Families & lake-goers: A blend of races, parties, demo days, and boat fun for all ages.
- Charity supporters: Events like Wishing on a Ride give back to the community.
- Local economy booster: The event channels hundreds of thousands into local nonprofits and infrastructure improvements .
🏡 Stay with Your Lake Vacation
Elevate your Shootout experience by staying in a comfortable, lakefront rental:
- Spacious Houses: Ideal for families or groups. Many feature private docks—perfect for boating days and lake views.
- Lakefront Condos/Cabins: Cozy, convenient and often within a short drive to restaurants, shopping, entertainment and Shootout events.
Why choose Your Lake Vacation:
- Variety of properties: From multi-bedroom houses to intimate condos—all lake-adjacent.
- Amenities: Private docks, community pools, lake access, and proximity to key venues like Dog Days Bar & Grill and the Bagnell Dam Strip.
💡 Tip: Book early—August fills quickly!
🧭 Planning Your Lake Adventure – Quick Tips
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Plan water + road access—Dog Days is dock-accessible; land parking nearby. |
| Event passes | Most events are free or donation-based; demo rides may need registration. |
| Supplies | Bring life jackets, sunscreen, hats – it’s sunny and fast out on the water. |
| Evening fun | Attend street party, dock party, and demo days in the week prior. |
| Charity support | Contribute to Wishing on a Ride and Shootout’s charitable giving initiatives. |
🚀 Final Shootout Thoughts
The 2025 Lake of the Ozarks Shootout promises full throttle excitement, memorable pre-race festivities, family-friendly fun, and community spirit—all set against the stunning beauty of Missouri’s lake country. Plan ahead, pick a great rental through Your Lake Vacation, and prepare to:
- Cheer on high-octane powerboats zipping across the water
- Explore the full lineup of pre-race events—street parties, demo rides, charity rallies
- Kick back at Rock the Dock with music, food, and dockside views
- Wake up lakeside in comfort, soaking in August’s warmth and ambiance
Start packing your sunscreen and rally your crew—this year’s Shootout is gearing up to be the all-time best. We’ll see you on the dock!
Nightly Vacation Rentals at the Lake of the Ozarks:
Experience the Difference
4571 Osage Beach Pkwy
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone: 573-365-3367
