Hello Witches & Warlocks
It's almost time to ride!
Please read this page in its entirety so you are aware of important details including when to arrive, schedule, and where to park.
Location & Arrival
Kingsland Point Park, 299 Palmer Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY
Check-in for paddlers is 10:30-11:30am!
When you enter the park, a guide/volunteer will direct you to one of our Check-In/Gear Drop areas. There will be two gear drop-off areas. Make sure you check in at a gear drop off to receive your event bracelet and rental equipment (if reserved). Pre-purchased festival shirts will be at the Rivertowns SUP & Yoga tent on the main field.
It is VITAL that you arrive early! Traffic in Sleepy Hollow in October can be horrific (pun intended). Factor in extra time if you are bringing your own equipment or need to inflate and/or decorate your board.
We will have a SUP Witches Lounge where paddlers can spend time before paddling. It's better to arrive early and relax than be late and have to search for parking! Or even worse - be late and miss the parade! The park gates will close to cars by noon.
PARKING
Parking is available in the park for paddlers, vendors, and volunteers first come first served basis. We cannot guarantee a spot will be available so arrive early. Volunteers will be available to direct you and help you unload if needed. Look for someone wearing a bright yellow volunteer lanyard.
Schedule
10:30-11:30am Arrival & Check-in
12pm Festival begins! We will try to have a brief meeting in the Witches Lounge
12:30pm Witches begin to launch & gather on the water for group photo
1-2pm SUP Witches Paddle Parade (more details below)
2:30pm Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Headless Horseman
3:30-5pm Live music (festival ends at 5pm)
PADDLE PARADE
We will begin to make our way to the water at 12:30pm and stay near the beach for a group photo. Our Paddle Parade begins at 1pm with our Grand Marshal, Paddle Pub, blowing a horn and leading the way. We will paddle along the shoreline of the park with three zones so paddlers can decide how far to paddle based on their comfort level. There will be several safety boats on the water - look out for wakes!
All paddlers will return to the beach for the end of the parade. Those renting equipment will need to return their boards, leashes, PFDs, and paddles to the rental area. Those with their own equipment can load their gear at any time. Everyone is encouraged to stay for the length of the festival. Please support the vendors and live band!
BE ADVISED - we are using a private beach to launch and the gate access will be locked at 2:30pm. Paddlers will not be able to access the beach launch after the gate is locked!
ZONES 1-2-3
ONE BROOM: "10-cent broom rides" (beginners) TWO BROOMS: "I drive stick" (intermediate) THREE BROOMS: "frequent flyer" (intermediate/advanced)
Costumes/What to Wear
Wear something you can comfortably paddle in and potentially swim in.
Neoprene and/or wet suits are recommended.
Secure any loose objects (hat, decorations on your vessel).
PFDs/Vests are required BY LAW! You must wear a personal flotation device or have one on the board with you, waist-pack PFDs are acceptable.
Leashes are also required. The Hudson is a moving body of water. If you fall off your board, the leash keeps you close to your board.
I know this is a lot of information! We are expecting over 140 paddlers and lots of spectators so it's important to pay attention to details and remember - SAFETY FIRST!
Be Kind, Be Safe, Have Fun!
Be kind and helpful to your fellow paddler! If you see someone struggling, ask if they need help. Look out for each other on the water! Let's be safe, have fun, and put on a wicked show!
If you have any questions, please reach out to supwitchfest@gmail.com
Sincerely,
Tara, Chrissy & Leanne
The SUP Witches Festival Committee