Hydroplanes will thunder across Oak Harbor Bay this weekend, doing their part in an event-filled weekend that will stimulate the senses of attendees.

The roar of the boats will fill the ears of the viewers, who can also take part in the aroma and taste of the PigFest, the sights of the Car Show and the feel of the wares of the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Fair.

About 50 boats are expected to attend Hydros for Heroes, said race director Craig McKenzie.

“All is going well, lots of things are coming together and we are doing the final sprint this week in hopes of knocking this event out of the park,” McKenzie said.

“(I’m) getting some great help from our fellow Rotarians right when we have needed it the most, so that has been a huge blessing.”

In addition to the racing, a hydro simulator will be in the pits for spectators to experience what it is like to pilot one of the race boats.

A bounce house will be on hand for the kids.

The pits, which have been at the Oak Harbor Marina the past two years, will be moved to Flintstone Park this summer so fans can get a closer look at the pre- and post-race activities of the drivers.

A raffle will include “lots of great prizes,” including a ride in a two-seated hydroplane, according to McKenzie.

Proceeds from the hydroplane race will go into the Rotary Club’s charitable activities, and McKenzie said he is still taking donations and sponsorships.

The Whidbey News-Times is official media sponsor for this year’s hydroplane races.

Tickets are still available at www.hydrosforheroes.com for the VIP Experience, where participants can watch the race from a yacht while receiving food and drinks.

For a nominal fee, the public can attend the drivers’ dinner at 7 p.m. Friday.

A meet-and-greet party from 8-11 p.m. Saturday will give fans another chance to get to know the drivers.

Racing takes place 1-7 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.