Celebrate Paddling ADK, the Adirondacks’ annual festival honoring the region’s vibrant paddling culture, will return in May 2026 for its 10th anniversary. Beginning in early May and extending throughout the summer, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to experience more than two months of on-the-water adventures, educational clinics, community service opportunities, and outdoor exploration throughout Saranac Lake. All programming is rooted in a shared commitment to giving back to the paddling community and protecting the waterways that define the Adirondacks.
The festival kicks off with the River Reels Film Fest, presented by Boothe River Park, on May 2 at 7 p.m. at The Garagery in Saranac Lake. The event serves as a fundraiser for Boothe River Park, a proposed river park leveraging the community’s rich paddling history and culture, while uniting the area’s recreational attractions and the vitality of the downtown business corridor. Those unable to attend can donate to the cause at bootheriverpark.com.
A week later, the ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race, hosted by the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT), takes place on Saturday, May 9. The race, a long-standing Adirondack tradition, challenges paddlers on a scenic and dynamic route connecting lakes and carries.
“‘Round the Mountain is a celebration of everything that makes Adirondack paddling special—connection to place, community, and the joy of moving across the landscape by water,” said Mike Lynch, communications and partnerships manager for the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. “It’s an event that welcomes both seasoned racers and those looking to challenge themselves in a supportive, inspiring environment.”
Festival highlights include community paddles, boat demo days, river clean-ups, and hands-on clinics designed to help paddlers build confidence.
Another key event is the Adirondack Paddling Symposium, scheduled for June 12–15. Designed for beginner and intermediate paddlers, the symposium offers immersive instruction across multiple disciplines, including kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and pack boating.
While the historic Willard Hanmer Races on July 6 have long marked the festival’s finale—a beloved tradition that brings the paddling community together in a celebration of friendly competition and Adirondack heritage—organizers are planning additional events this year, with details to be announced.
“Celebrate Paddling ADK reflects the spirit of community and adventure that defines the Adirondacks,” said Ashley Garwood, Saranac Lake regional manager at ROOST. “We’re excited to welcome both residents and visitors to discover the unique beauty of our local waterways while connecting with the people and organizations who help protect them.”
Founded in 2016, Celebrate Paddling ADK was created through a collaborative effort among local businesses and organizations passionate about preserving and sharing the region’s paddling heritage. Partners include the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters, St. Regis Canoe Outfitters, Raquette River Outfitters, Guide ADK, Boothe River Park, Northwest River Supplies, the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST).
With a broad range of activities, from races to educational talks and family-friendly outings, Celebrate Paddling ADK truly offers something for everyone. Full event details and the complete schedule are available at celebratepaddlingadk.com.