It’s not every day a race swaps running shoes for couches, but that is exactly what’s in store at the Parrots Block Party coming in June.    

The Rotary Club of Madison will host the community festival and fundraiser June 6 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Home Place Park, with the crowd-favorite “Couch Potato Races” set to take center stage.

Teams will push decorated couches around a 0.5K course in timed heats, competing for bragging rights and prizes in what organizers describe as a lighthearted, high-energy competition.

“We’re excited to bring our signature parrot-themed celebration to a brand-new setting at Home Place Park. As we mark the third year of our infamous couch races, we look forward to a day filled with family-friendly games, entertainment, and community fun,” said Cat Turner with Rotary Club of Madison.

Participants are encouraged to build, decorate and race their couches, with awards planned for both speed and creativity.

The event also features a “Parrots 0.5K,” a roughly 600-yard fun run designed more for entertainment than endurance. Participants can walk, jog or stroll the course, with each registered entrant receiving a race bib that doubles as an entry for prize drawings held during the event.

Beyond the races, the Parrots Block Party will include island-themed music, games, contests, food trucks, raffle prizes and local vendors. Attendees are encouraged to dress in tropical attire, adding to the laid-back, beach-style atmosphere.

Organizers said proceeds from the event will benefit the Rotary Club of Madison Foundation, supporting local community projects as well as international initiatives in Honduras.

The Parrots Block Party is hosted by the Rotary Club of Madison and is open to the public.