🎃 Pumpkins & Paddles: A Halloween Kayak Adventure!

Presented by NORA “North Ottawa Recreation Authority” & Lakeshore Kayak Rental

Grab your costume, paddle, and a sense of adventure. Pumpkins & Paddles is making a splash at Lloyd’s Bayou this October! This unique, family-friendly event blends the magic of Halloween with the beauty of fall kayaking for a one-of-a-kind trick-or-treat experience on the water.
Participants will paddle through the calm, festive waters of Lloyd’s Bayou, stopping at floating pumpkins and decorated docks to collect candy, spot creative costumes, and soak in the crisp autumn air. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or brand new to paddling, this event is designed for all ages to enjoy.
🗓️ Event Details
  • Dates: Two Saturdays before Halloween — e.g., Oct. 12 & Oct. 19, with Oct. 26 as a rain date
  • Location: Lloyd’s Bayou — entry via Lakeshore Kayak Rental launch
  • Time Slots: Staggered launches every hour (e.g., 10 AM–Noon, 11 AM–1 PM, Noon–2 PM, etc.)
  • Each paddle lasts about one hour, with plenty of time for floating fun and treat stops.
🧙‍♀️ Who Can Paddle
  • Ages 5–7 ride tandem with an adult
  • Ages 8+ may paddle solo (or ride tandem if preferred)
  • Life jackets are required for everyone — bring your own or borrow one free of charge from Lakeshore Kayak Rental.
  • Costumes are highly encouraged — just make sure they’re water-safe and paddle-friendly!
🍭 What’s in Store
  • Paddle to floating pumpkins and collect treats at every stop.
  • Meet the friendly (and slightly spooky!) staff from NORA and LKR, who will be on hand to keep paddlers safe and spirits high.
  • Collect stamps on your treat card, then head back to shore for a fresh cider and doughnut reward.
  • All goodies are water-safe and distributed in dry bags for easy paddling.
💰 Registration & Cost
  • $30 per person — includes kayak rental, paddle, life jacket, treats, and cider/doughnut.
  • $20 per person — if bringing your own kayak (advance registration still required).
  • Optional Add-On: Limited-edition event tumbler for just $8 — perfect for sipping cider on the water!
☀️ Weather Back-Up
Michigan fall weather can be unpredictable — so we’ve planned for it! With two weekends available and an Oct. 26 rainy date, there’s flexibility to reschedule if needed. All participants will receive an email update 48 hours before their scheduled paddle.
🔗 How to Register
Sign up through NORA’s registration portal. www.norarec.org Waivers for both NORA and Lakeshore Kayak Rental are included in the process, making check-in smooth and simple.
Don’t miss your chance to make unforgettable memories this fall — costumes, kayaks, and candy await at Pumpkins & Paddles!
 

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