Neighbor News
Witches and Warlocks Paddle the Mystic River in Spooktacular Fashion! 🧙♀️🛶
The Mystic River was alive with festive, spooky spirit yesterday, October 11, as the 7th Annual Witch Paddle and Coat Drive took place.
MYSTIC, CT — Sixty-five participants, dressed as witches, wizards, and skeletons, launched their kayaks, canoes and paddleboards for the hugely popular Halloween-themed event at Adventure Mystic, all while supporting a great local cause.
A Parade on the Water
The costumed paddlers, led by Jeff Jodoin, began their journey from Adventure Mystic. The highly anticipated moment came at 4:40 PM when the flotilla, escorted by the Mystic Water Taxi, paddled directly under the raised Mystic River Bascule Drawbridge. Cheering crowds gathered at Mystic River Park to wave and celebrate the spectacle as the witches and warlocks glided past.
The atmosphere was electric, with the "Witch Paddle" drawing locals and visitors alike. Among the participants were the Wayward Witches from Sprague, CT, a fun-loving group known for gathering to dance and bring happiness and fun wherever they go—and they certainly succeeded in spreading cheer along the Mystic River!
Community and Celebration
The event was a true community affair. While the main goal was a fun paddle, it also served as an important Coat Drive, gathering donations of new and gently used coats for the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center.
On-site at Adventure Mystic, attendees had extra resources and fun thanks to local partners Bank Square Books and SUP CT. Prizes for the three best costumes were awarded by Seaside Shadows Haunted History Ghost Tour, the Dark Manor Haunted House and Wood ‘N’ Tap.
Once the paddle concluded, the festivities moved ashore for a well-deserved celebration. Participants and organizers alike enjoyed a lively BBQ and dance party, capping off a wonderfully successful, community-focused, and spooktacular day on the water. All who attended agreed the day was a fantastic success!
