Put down your broomsticks and pick up a paddle.
Vancouver’s sixth annual Witchilano Paddle will summon witches and warlocks to Kitsilano Beach on Saturday, October 3rd at 11am.
Costumed paddlers will gather on the beach in front of the main washroom building before launching their boards at approximately 11:30am. The flotilla will travel from Kitsilano to Granville Island, with participants welcome to finish there or complete the return trip to Kits Beach.
Organizers encourage paddlers to wear their best witch or warlock costume—and dress mainly in black—to create suitably spooky scenes on the water.
The free event has grown into one of Vancouver’s quirkiest fall traditions. The inaugural Witchilano Paddle attracted approximately 40 people in 2021, while more recent editions have drawn hundreds of costumed paddlers.
Participants are encouraged to bring packaged food or a cash donation for SHARE Family and Community Services. Suggested food donations include canned goods, whole-grain rice, legumes, and baby formula.
Witchilano is an informal community paddle without lifeguards, instruction, or official safety supervision. Participants should have previous paddleboarding experience and must bring a personal flotation device and SUP leash. First-time paddlers are advised to enjoy the spectacle from the shore.
