Witches of Wickford Paddle | Kayak Centre RI
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone with basic paddling endurance; comfort in calm water is recommended.
Overview
Join the Halloween Paddle Parade at Wickford Harbor with Kayak Centre of Rhode Island. Dress up, paddle scenic waters, compete for prizes, and support the local food pantry in this spirited annual event.
Witches of Wickford Paddle
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join the Halloween Paddle Parade at Wickford Harbor for a thrilling day of costumes, camaraderie, and charity! Dress as your favorite spooky character and compete for prizes while paddling through picturesque waters. Enjoy a festive atmosphere, support the North Kingstown Food Pantry, and create unforgettable memories on this unique adventure!
Witch, Please! It’s Time to Paddle for a Cause! Calling all witches, goblins, ghouls—and yes, even their costumed pets! Join us for a spooktacular paddle around Wickford Harbor filled with frightful fun and fundraising for a great cause!
Day of the Event
- Halloween Paddle Parade & Costume Contest
- Date: Sunday, October 19th 2025 (Rain Date: October 25th)
- Launch Point: Gardner’s Launch
- Arrival and bib pick-up for Contestants: 10:00–11:15 AM
- Parade Launch: 12:00 PM sharp!
If you're participating in the costume contest, please plan to arrive between 10:00 AM and 11:15 AM to check in and receive your numbered bib. Your bib must be clearly visible so our judges can identify you during the parade.
The costumed paddle parade will launch from Gardner’s Launch at 12:00 PM, making its way toward the town dock and public parking lot, where our judges will be waiting to score each participant.
Once you've been judged, you’re free to paddle off into the spooky seas and enjoy the rest of your Halloween adventure at your own pace!
COSTUME CONTEST CATEGORIES:
- Best Witch
- Best Warlock
- Best Dressed Pet
- Most Creative/Original
Winners in all four categories will be awarded awesome prizes!
Registration: $25 per paddler All proceeds go to the North Kingstown Food Pantry! The Kayak Centre is proud to kick things off with a $2,500 donation!
Register Online Only (No walk-ups) *Please ensure your virtual waivers are signed prior to your arrival.
IMPORTANT:
This is a BYO-Boat event — no rentals available.
All paddlers must wear a PFD (life jacket) in accordance with Rhode Island law.
Dress for chilly air & water—synthetic layers & neoprene/booties are your best bet!
Come haunt the harbor, strut your spooky style, and help support local families in need. Let’s make waves for a good cause!
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Kayak
This is a BYO-Boat event—no kayak rentals are available, so plan accordingly.
Dress for Chilly Weather
October temperatures can be brisk; wear synthetic layers and neoprene footwear to stay warm on the water.
PFDs Are Mandatory
Rhode Island law requires all paddlers to wear personal flotation devices during the event.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Costume contestants should arrive between 10:00 and 11:15 AM to receive bibs before the noon parade launch.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys nesting near the harbor
- Harbor seals occasionally visible offshore
History
Wickford Harbor has long been a fishing and trading hub, its maritime history dating back to colonial times.
Conservation
The event promotes low-impact water recreation and supports local charities, reinforcing stewardship of Rhode Island’s coastal environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Providence
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Required by law and critical for safety on the water.
fall specific
Synthetic Base Layers
Keep warm and dry with moisture-wicking layers suited for cool fall paddling.
fall specific
Neoprene Booties
Protect feet from cold water during the Halloween paddle parade.
fall specific
Dry Bag
Keep personal items safe and dry while on the water.