The Fifth Annual Blazing Paddles Paddlefest on July 21-22, 2023 (Cleveland's Birthday!) is a kayak, paddleboard, and canoe recreational celebration of Cleveland’s hard-working Cuyahoga River. Paddlers will enjoy exclusive access to Cleveland's historic & scenic Cuyahoga River to enjoy a relaxed 8.6-mile recreational paddle or one of three races (3.2, 6.8 and 14.4-miles) on a well-protected course.
Come for the paddle but you can also enjoy live music, a beerfest and food by the river during our early check-in and expo on Friday, July 21. Discover why the Cuyahoga River just won USA Today's 10Best Readers Choice Best Urban Kayaking Spot vote!