Rideau PaddleFest:
A Voyageur Canoe Celebration
SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!
Paddlefest is an annual event in which teams compete for a championship in Voyageur Canoe races. Meanwhile, their families, friends, and the public celebrate the River— its nature, history, culture and benefits. It’s a great day on the Rideau at Kinsmen’s Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls.
Countdown to Rideau PaddleFest:
The date is approaching fast, and we’re making preparations. Don’t miss out!
What is there to see and do:
Enjoy a day under the trees and beside the water!
You Will See...
- Canoe Races
- Live Entertainment
- Canoe Ballet
- Exhibitors from many Canoe, Community and Environmental Organizations
- Paddling Demonstrations
- Paddling Puppeteer at the Heritage House Museum across the road
You Can Do...
- Enjoy a Free Canoe Tour
- Kids Activities at the Eco-Literacy Center
- Dress-up in Voyageur Costumes and Ride in the Enchanted Canoe
- Canoe Tug-of-War
- Face-painting and Storytelling
- Photography Contest
photo contest
PaddleFest is proud to announce the annual photo contest!
CATEGORIES:
– All Around the Rideau Canal – photos related to the Rideau Waterway taken during Paddlefest.
– Paddlefest Action in Water – the races, tours, tug-of -war.
– Festival Fun – your photos of entertainment, children’s activities, displays, presentations , etc. at Paddlefest
AGE CATEGORIES:
All ages.
PRIZES:
Prize information to be announced.
DEADLINE:
June 15th, 2025
Other Details:
Feel free to submit titles, descriptions and keyword tags to each image. The more information you include, the easier it will be for others to find your great photos later. Include your contact information, and school grade (if applicable) in the body of your email.
Get Involved! Join the Races! Everyone is welcome!
Join the Main Event at Rideau PaddleFest- the Voyageur Canoe Races!
You don’t have to already be on a team, there are “pick-up” spots available. Our expert organizers will place you where you are needed. If you want to race against or beside friends and family, please note that on your registration form. There is a FREE t-shirt included in the fee.
Before each race, the professional Gouvernail (which translates from French to literally mean rudder) on board each canoe will give some pointers and tips. Of course, each Gouvernail has different secrets, and the competition between them for bragging rights is intense. So, you don’t need much paddling experience, just a willing spirit and a taste for adventure.
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own paddle or PFD?
Can I bring a picnic?
Do I need to know how to paddle in order to take a tour?
Beginners are welcome! We will provide instruction in four basic paddle strokes before we depart for any tour.
Is this like Dragonboat racing?
A bit, but it’s much faster. In a race between a Dragon Boat and a Voyageur canoe, assuming equally trained teams, the canoe would leave the Dragonboat in the dust…
Can we swim?
There is no supervised swim area at Lower Reach Park.