Is prior paddleboarding experience required?

No, all skill levels are welcome. Rentals and beginner guidance are provided.

Can I bring my own paddleboard or kayak?

Yes, you're welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer.

Are costumes mandatory?

Costumes are encouraged to enhance the festive atmosphere but not required.

What is the cancellation policy in case of bad weather?

Events may be rescheduled or canceled for severe weather; check with the organizers on the day of.

Are life jackets provided with rentals?

Yes, all rental boards come with a life jacket included.

Where is the launch point?

The paddle starts at Downtown Dock, 200 S. University Parks Dr, Waco, TX.

Experience the Magical Witches Paddle Parade on the Brazos River in Waco, TX | Events | Boat Tour

Every October, as the crisp autumn air settles over Waco, Texas, a truly unique event invites paddlers of all skill levels to embrace a blend of outdoor adventure and festive fun: the Witches Paddle Parade. Held on the tranquil Brazos River beneath the Franklin Avenue Bridge, this spirited parade is more than a paddle—it’s a chance to float alongside a coven of witches in costume, letting your imagination take flight on the gentle currents of one of Texas’s iconic waterways.

The Brazos River, stretching over 1,000 miles, holds key cultural and ecological significance in the region. Its calm waters near downtown Waco provide an ideal setting for a peaceful paddle while enjoying the scenic urban backdrop mingled with patches of riverside vegetation. During the parade, participants don witch-themed costumes, turning the river into an enchanting passageway awash in spooky charm and camaraderie. The event welcomes novices and experienced paddlers alike, making it a perfect occasion to try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in a festive, low-pressure atmosphere.

Launching from the Downtown Dock at 200 S. University Parks Dr, the parade sets out with rental boards available on-site for just $15, providing an accessible entry point for locals and visitors. As you glide smoothly downstream, the serene flow and early morning light create a magical ambiance, amplifying the event’s celebratory spirit. It’s a community-driven experience that highlights Waco’s growing reputation as a hub for outdoor recreation, blending urban river access with creative seasonal celebrations.

What sets the Witches Paddle Parade apart is how it transforms a simple river paddle into a themed gathering that sparks joy and connection. It’s not simply about navigating the Brazos; it’s about sharing laughs, admiring imaginative costumes, and engaging with an outdoor event that reverberates with local culture and nature. Worth noting is the timing—late October offers mild weather that’s ideal for paddling, and the event’s lighthearted spooky theme enriches the seasonal experience.

For those visiting Waco, the event offers a fresh perspective on the city’s riverfront and a chance to engage with the outdoors in a playful way. This paddle parade is a standout in the Texan outdoor calendar, providing a community-centered, nature-based activity that’s both approachable and memorable. Don your witchy attire, paddle alongside fellow adventurers, and see the Brazos River from a delightfully different viewpoint.

With a blend of fun, nature, and local culture, the Witches Paddle Parade invites visitors to embrace the outdoors—and their inner witch—in the heart of Waco this October.