All class, no crass

Hornblower Cruises & Events

106 L St.
Sacramento, CA 95814
Ste. 7

(916) 446-1185

Sacramento’s rivers have seen plenty of out-of-control parties this summer (see “Rage over troubled water” by Raheem F. Hosseini, SN&R Feature Story, August 23). Whether it’s the binge-drinking and brawl-filled Rafting Gone Wild, or the bro- and floozy-filled Rage on the River, there’s no shortage of ways to party on the river.

And then there’s this weekend’s Rollin’ on the River—pretty much the polar opposite of the aforementioned events.

Sponsored by the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation, Rollin’ on the River features—in lieu of beer and stripper poles—a champagne toast for the I Street Bridge’s 100th anniversary and a silent auction. The event happens aboard the Empress Hornblower cruise boat vs. a speedboat or raft. And, instead of modern binge-drinking-game classics such as “chugalug” or “show your tatas,” it features 1850s-style casino games such as faro, chuck-a-luck and shut the box.

Note: An optional precruise reception—emceed by former news anchors Dave Walker and Lois Hart—celebrates Sacramento community leader and restaurateur Lina Fat. It happens from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Sacramento History Museum (101 I Street).

Basically, what you need to know is this: Don’t expect a wild, drunken frat party. Expect to learn a little bit about the history of the I Street Bridge. And probably some top hats, Victorian dresses and frock coats. Plus, all of the event’s proceeds benefit the Historic Old Sacramento Foundation.

Friday, September 14 (reception from 5 to 6 p.m.; cruise from 6 to 8:30 p.m.). $75 for cruise, $125 for reception and cruise. Hornblower Dock, 1206 Front Street; (916) 808-7108; www.historicoldsac.org.