2024 Portland Witches Paddle Boarding Event

Photo by Mark Graves

This event is on hiatus on 2024. The details below are from 2023.

Picture this: a convoy of witches on stand-up paddleboards gliding along the Willamette River against the backdrop of Portland’s skyline. Watch witches descend on the downtown waterway at this annual paddle boarding event in October.

In a city known for its quirky traditions and unique events, the 7th annual Portland SUP Witches promises to be a spectacle that blends the spirit of Halloween with the city’s love for outdoor activities.

Ready to kick off the spooky season? Attend the Halloween Swamp Meet at Oaks Park.

Here are the details about the 2024 event:

**This event is on hiatus on 2024. The details below are from 2023.**

The Portland witches paddle boarding event is Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 11 a.m. This event has become a beloved tradition that brings together paddleboarding enthusiasts, Halloween aficionados and those looking for a spooktacular time on the Willamette River.

The 6-mile round trip between Willamette Park and Tom McCall Waterfront Park transforms into a bewitching journey.

Where to Watch

The rhythmic paddling against the river’s current and the vibrant costumes make for a visual treat that captures the essence of Portland’s eccentric charm.

While the event starts at 11 a.m., it will take time for the paddlers to reach these viewpoints from Willamette Park. Plan on having an open schedule to take in all the enchanting sights on the river.

Here are prime viewing points along the Portland waterfront:

John’s Landing Neighborhood
South Hawthorne Waterfront Park
Tilikum Crossing Bridge
Hawthorne Bridge
East Bank Promenade
Tom McCall Waterfront Park

For those planning to watch from Willamette Park, organizers kindly request refraining from parking in the lot to ensure there’s ample space for the witches. It’s a small but crucial gesture to support the event’s logistics and make sure everyone has a magical experience.

How to Participate

If you love paddle boarding and want to join in on the bewitching fun, dust off your witch or warlock costume and fly to Willamette Park. Participating is free. There is a fee to park.

Organizers do ask that all participants are experienced paddled boarders, wear a PFD and leash, and have a whistle and waterway permit. You’ll also need to bring your own SUP, paddle and other equipment.

Paddlers are encouraged to hug the west side of the river, specifically the South Waterfront side, avoiding the middle and showing courtesy to passing boats. This not only ensures safety but also enhances the visual spectacle for onlookers. Participants can do as much or as little of the 6-mile route as they want.

For more information about participating, read the FAQ page.

Whether you’re paddling alongside other witches or cheering them on from the riverbank, this event captures the spirit of Halloween in a fun, free event for all the enjoy. For more information, visit PDX SUP Witches’ website.

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Looking for more Halloween events? Here’s a full list: