January 2026 Blog: Kick Off Shootout #38 the Putt-Putt Way!

by Christy Wagner, Editor

Get ready for the adrenaline, the energy, and the unmatched excitement of Shootout #38 at the Lake of the Ozarks! We are gearing up for another unforgettable year filled with behind-the-scenes action, incredible events, and months of planning that bring never-before-seen Shootout experiences to life. Below, you will find our full schedule of events, along with a shout-out to some of our amazing sponsors who help make it all possible.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our worldwide supporters, racers, spectators, board members, staff, volunteers, first responders, sponsors, and the entire Lake of the Ozarks community. Your passion and dedication are what make this event truly unparalleled, and we could not be more excited to deliver another incredible year of powerboating, celebration, and, of course, community.

2026 Lake of the Ozarks Shootout #38 Schedule of Events:

To Register, Please Visit: https://www.lakeoftheozarksshootout.com/lotoshootoutevents

Shootout Dam Putt Putt Tournament

The Shootout Dam Putt Putt Tournament kicks off the 2026 season on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, at the Bagnell Dam Strip. This fun and competitive event brings participants together for a great cause while enjoying a unique putt-putt experience in the heart of Lake of the Ozarks.

On behalf of the 3rd Annual Dam Putt Putt Tournament, Sponsored by Elite Roofing and Breakthru Beverage, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to our generous sponsors: Lucy’s at the Lake, Summer U.S.A., Tucker’s Shuckers Oysters & Tap, Lucky’s, Brick House Gastropub, Casablanca, Icehole, The Cuddy Cabin, Marty Byrde’s, Roxie’s Roadhouse, S.N.A.F.U. Bar, RIP Tavern, Split Arrow Boutique, Outlaws Mens Outpost, and Cactus Blossom Boutique.

17th Annual Shootout Golf Tournament

Held on Saturday, May 9th, 2026, the 17th Annual Shootout Golf Tournament takes place at Lake Valley Golf Club. Golfers of all skill levels come together for a day of friendly competition, networking, and support of the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout.

Shady Showdown Weekend at Shady Gators

Takes place on May 29th–30th, 2026; the Shady Showdown Weekend at Shady                Gators brings two days of live entertainment, high-energy excitement, and nonstop            Shootout spirit to Lake of the Ozarks. Festivities begin Friday with the Kickoff Party       and continue Saturday with Shady’s Showdown, a fan-favorite event featuring competition, adrenaline, and a lively celebration of powerboating tradition.

Adult Glow Treasure Hunt

The Adult Glow Treasure Hunt happens Friday, May 29th, 2026, at Franky and Louie’s. Get ready to dig, laugh, and glow! Join us for the first ever Adult Glow Treasure Hunt — a 21+ nighttime adventure where the beach lights up under blacklights and glowing treasures are buried in the sand.

Float Your Boat

Scheduled for Saturday, May 30th, 2026, Float Your Boat takes place at Franky and Louie’s. Gather your crew, build your masterpiece, and get ready for a day of laughs, friendly rivalries, and lake fun. Whether you’re racing or just here for the entertainment, this is another event you won’t want to miss!

The Great Shootout Treasure Hunt

Also on Saturday, May 30th, 2026, The Great Shootout Treasure Hunt at Franky and Louie’s offers participants of all ages a thrilling and interactive event where participants dig through the sand in search of amazing prizes. With a variety of hidden treasures waiting to be found, the excitement builds as everyone races to uncover the grand prize!

Vivi Jo Barbie Poker Run

The Vivi Jo Barbie Poker Run will take place on Saturday, June 6th, 2026, at Lake of the Ozarks, bringing together boats, friends, and the community for a fun, Barbie-themed day on the water in honor of Vivi Jo. This special event supports The Cure Starts Now – Missouri, Vivi Jo Forever Brave Chapter, raising funds for pediatric brain cancer research while celebrating Vivi Jo’s bright spirit and continuing the fight for a cure.

Shootout Offshore

Taking place June 12th–14th, 2026. Come and hear the roar of offshore as Shootout Offshore takes over Lake of the Ozarks for a full weekend of high-speed racing and waterfront excitement. From start to finish, the weekend delivers nonstop action, unforgettable moments on the water, and a celebration of the competitors who make it all possible.

Mini Shootout

The Mini Shootout, taking place July 31st–August 2nd, 2026, at Ha Ha Tonka Springs, offers a scaled-down but exciting racing experience, keeping the Shootout energy going with a full weekend of fun and competition on the water.

Wishing on a Ride

The first ride takes place Sunday, August 23, 2026, Wishing on a Ride is a heartfelt event dedicated to giving children facing serious illness the opportunity to enjoy a special ride experience on the lake. The event kicks off at Performance Boat Center, bringing together participants, families, and supporters to help create unforgettable moments on the water.

Additional event details and a second date will be announced at a later time.

Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Bob Morgan Memorial Hall of Fame Dinner

On Tuesday, August 25th, 2026, the Shootout Hall of Fame Dinner will be held at the Big Thunder Showroom, honoring individuals who have made a lasting impact on the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout.

Shootout Street Party

The Shootout Street Party takes place Wednesday, August 26th, 2026, at the Bagnell Dam Strip, bringing fans, racers, and sponsors together for live entertainment and celebration.

Shootout Demo Day

Scheduled for Thursday, August 27th, 2026, Shootout Demo Days will be hosted at Dog Days, giving attendees a chance to experience boats, products, and demonstrations up close.

PBC Welcome Party

Also on Thursday, August 27th, 2026, the Shootout Welcome Party will be held at the Performance Boat Center Showroom, officially welcoming racers, sponsors, and fans to Shootout weekend.

Poly Lift Shootout Poker Run

The Poker Run on Friday, August 28th, 2026 (location TBA), offers participants a classic LOTO experience combining boating, fun stops, and Shootout camaraderie.

Live Auction

The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Live Auction is one of the most exciting moments of Shootout festivities. Featuring exclusive items, one-of-a-kind experiences, and premium packages you won’t find anywhere else, this live auction directly supports the Shootout’s charitable mission (date and location TBA).

38th Annual Shootout – Day #1

Saturday, August 29th, 2026, marks Day #1 of the 38th Annual Lake of the Ozarks Shootout at Dog Days and the Grand Glaize Arm, featuring world-class powerboat racing.

38th Annual Shootout – Day #2

Sunday, August 30th, 2026, continues the action with Day #2 of racing at Dog Days and the Grand Glaize Arm, concluding an unforgettable weekend on the water.

Awards Ceremony

The Shootout Awards Ceremony takes place Sunday, August 30th, 2026, celebrating racers, winners, and milestones from the weekend (location TBA).

Steve Brink Memorial Trapshooting Event

This special event (date TBA) will be hosted by the Missouri Trapshooters Association, honoring Steve Brink while supporting the Shootout through a competitive shooting experience.

Run What Ya Brung Poker Run

Run What Ya Brung Poker Run takes place on Friday, September 1. This event is all about fun, not just horsepower. Whether you’re cruising in a pontoon, center console, performance boat, or anything in between, you’re welcome to join in.

Toons and Tunes Fest

This event takes place September 11-13 at Dog Days Bar & Grill. Toons & Tunes is designed to bring all dealers together and provide a fun, free event for the public. With live music and a family-friendly atmosphere, this is an ideal setting to put your product and boats in front of potential buyers.

For sponsorship information, or inquiries on the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout Guide’s amazing advertorial opportunities, please contact info@lotoshootout.com