Paddlefest

Celebrate, promote and protect the beauty of the Ohio River at the Annual Ohio River Way Paddlefest at Coney Island in Cincinnati! Enjoy two days of paddling, education, entertainment, competition and camaraderie.

The Kids Ex-Stream Expo starts the Friday River and Music Festival. Kids Ex-Stream Expo has become the largest children’s outdoor river education and recreation program in the area. Over 500 children primarily from inner city recreation camps get the opportunity to learn about the Ohio River and the outdoors in a unique and fun program. They get to see up close the fish from the Ohio River, learn about on water safety in a canoe, kayak or raft, experience some of the animals of Ohio, learn to fish and flycast and most of all have fun!

The festival continues with food and drink, 4-5 live bands all night, boating and safety demos, vendors and exhibits. Saturday morning over 1400 paddlers in canoes, kayaks, and large “war” canoes, put in the Ohio River and float downstream to the Public Landing of downtown Cincinnati culminating in the Finish Line Festival. There are amateur and pro races with medals available and cash prizes for the pro racers. Special events include “rolling” on the river with experienced paddlers rolling their kayaks over and over in competitions.

With your help and the support of our many generous corporate, small business and non-profit sponsors, the Ohio River Way will continue to sponsor events and raise funds to promote the Ohio Water Trail and help paddlers and power boaters alike, experience the natural beauty and recreational benefits of the Ohio and its unique network of tributaries.

Please visit our web site for more details and information about Paddlefest.