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.

Weather Update!!

We are expecting windy conditions with winds currently forecasted at 13mph out of the south/south-east during the paddle parade.

What does this mean?

  • We will paddle into the wind (actually a good thing) but be aware of potential offshore winds - you may feel a push you away from the shoreline.

  • We don’t expect to paddle far and may stay in the cove at the beach where we launch.

  • The tide will be going out but we won’t feel an impact from the current due to the wind.

SAFETY COMES FIRST

  • Don’t let your ego get in the way!

  • It is wickedly awesome for ALL of us to get on the water and float in the cove - ZONE 1 (see below)

 

Location & Arrival

Kingsland Point Park, 299 Palmer Ave, Sleepy Hollow, NY

(MAP/directions)

ARRIVAL: 10-11am & CHECK-IN BY: 11:30am

*Box Office Gates will begin setting up at 11am and gates will close to vehicles by 11:30am

When you enter the park, a guide/volunteer will direct you to one of our Check-In/Gear Drop areas. Make sure you check in at our registration table at the lower parking lot to receive your event bracelet and rental equipment (if reserved). A bracelet is required for access to the beach.

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.

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! Reminder: the park gates will close to cars by 11:30AM.

PARKING

Parking is available in the park for paddlers, vendors, staff and volunteers on a 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 lanyard or yellow CREW shirt.

Schedule

10:00-11:00am — Arrival (Box Office Gates will begin setting up at 11am); Check-in by 11:30am

11:30am — Gates close to vehicles and box office opens for public to enter

12pm — Festival begins - Live Music by The Fortunate Few

12:30-12:50pm — Witches begin to gather on beach for group photo and launch prep

12:50pm — Announcements on the beach by Tara Scheller

1-2pm — SUP Witches Paddle Parade (more details below)

2-4pm — Live Music by The Slicked Up 9’s

—> 3pm (ish) — RAFFLE: don’t miss your chance to win an electric fin for your SUP from our sponsor BOOST!

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, 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 according to the conditions that day - only paddle as far as you feel comfortable. 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. 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!

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 bands! If you need to leave before 4pm, you must exit through the emergency exit (see map).

safety paddle ZONES 1-2-3

ONE BROOM: "10-cent broom rides" (beginners) TWO BROOMS: "I drive stick" (intermediate) THREE BROOMS: "frequent flyer" (intermediate/advanced)

Important Reminders

NOTE: We are expecting windy conditions and expect our paddle parade may not go very far. It is totally acceptable and still wickedly awesome to hang out near the beach where we launch!

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 100 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, visit the paddler FAQs or summon the SUP Witches Festival Committee.

Sincerely,

Your SUP Witch Coven - Tara, Chrissy & Leanne