Legendary Biannual Whitewater Festival – September 19–21, 2025

Experience the Ottawa Valley’s most anticipated paddling event of the year!

Palmer River Festival is a 3-day celebration of paddling, music, and community. Whether you’re new to the river or an experienced paddler, this festival is the perfect way to wrap up your season with world-class instruction, local culture, and unforgettable memories.

Why Attend the Whitewater Festival?

• Top-rated clinics in kayaking, canoeing, and pack-rafting (beginner to expert).

• Professional instructors to refresh and advance your whitewater skills.

• Family-friendly activities including kids’ canoe/kayak clinics and a special kids’ concert.

• Live local music & food to keep the good vibes going off the water.

• On-site camping for a true paddler’s weekend under the stars.

Whether you’re here to paddle, listen to music, or simply enjoy the river community, this festival has something for everyone.

Typical Festival Schedule

Friday, September 19

• 5:00–8:00 p.m. – Arrival, registration, welcome, and live music

Saturday, September 20

• 7:30–8:45 a.m. – Registration

• Morning & afternoon: Instructional whitewater clinics

• 4:30–5:00 p.m. – Kids’ concert

• Evening – Live music + local food vendors

Sunday, September 21

• Morning & afternoon: Whitewater clinics continue

• Festival wrap-up & community send-off

This Year’s Highlights

🎉 New for 2025:

• Separate Intermediate and Advanced clinics in every discipline.

Who Should Join?

This festival welcomes everyone:

• Non-paddlers who love live music and the river lifestyle

• Beginners looking for safe, supportive introductions to whitewater

• Experienced paddlers refining skills before winter

• Experts wanting a challenge with advanced clinics and big water runs

Because let’s face it: river fun, great food, and a paddling community that feels like family is for everyone.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Palmer River (near Combermere, Ontario)
⛺ Camping: On-site, Friday & Saturday night (tent only, limited space)
💵 Food: Local vendors on-site (cash preferred)
🎟️ Raffle: Radical prizes, gear, and paddling swag

Don’t Miss It

Join us for the Legendary Biannual Whitewater Festival – September 19–21, 2025.
Celebrate paddling, community, and the changing seasons in the Ottawa Valley.

👉 Register now and secure your spot in clinics before they fill up!