MEC Burlington Paddlefest

The event itself is free, but there is a $9 charge for parking.

Marketplace

We’re happy to announce this year we will have the MEC Marketplace. What is the MEC Marketplace? It’s your chance to buy some of the great things you see at the beach!  And don’t forget, there will be a mini MEC store setup at MEC Paddlefest! A great spot of grab a pair of nose plugs and goggles, some new sunscreen, or a t-shirt.

Event Description

Our courses are for all abilities, from introductory to advanced, and are taught by some of North America’s greatest paddle sports instructors. Clinics and courses are $10 each plus tax, and include all the gear you need to get on the water.

This is a family event and kids are welcome. MEC Paddlefest has something for every paddler and aspiring paddler, including opportunities to test boats from North America’s leading manufacturers.

If it rains we get wet. Unless it’s unsafe, we are on the water.

Paddleswap

Have old paddling gear you want to get rid of? Come to Gear Swap’s new relative – Paddleswap. Paddle Swap will be held beside the MEC Marketplace. Your used gear will benefit from the high traffic MEC Marketplace will generate. More information will be available closer to the event.

Equipment

All of the equipment you will need for your course is included. If you would like to bring your own boat, please do! Canoes and kayaks of all types are welcome and your boat will be for your own personal use in on-water workshops. We will have PFDs available, but if you have your own, bring it along.

You’ll also want a change of clothes, snacks or a meal, and some money. We will have food trucks where you can purchase lunch or snacks, if you would like.

Participation

There will be workshops specifically designed for kids. However, if your child is attending a workshop, you need to attend the same workshop with them. There is no childcare, so you’ll need to supervise your kids.

Everyone can come learn with us. Even if you don’t swim, or have never been in a boat, come and join us – just make sure to select beginner-level workshops.

*All on-water participants will need to sign a waiver and wear a PFD or life jacket.

This event will run rain or shine. In the event of lightning or other dangerous weather on-water activities may be temporarily suspended, but on-land events will proceed as scheduled. As long as it’s safe, we’ll be on the water.

Volunteer

Do you want a whole day in the sun and get volunteer hours to boot! Sign up here to volunteer for MEC Burlington Paddlefest. We need volunteers to help with registration, running activities for the Kids Corner and to pack up the event. More details to come!

Our Program

• – On-water and dry-land workshops
• – Safety seminars
• – Various boat and paddling manufacturers
• – Boat demos and more
• – MEC Paddle Swap
• – Marketplace
• – Stand up paddle boarding
• – Kids’ courses

Clinic registration will open closer to the date. Register below if you want to be on our email list. We’ll email you when the clinics are open.