Paddle Antrim Festival 2026

Join us for the Paddle Antrim Festival, Friday, September 18 - Sunday, September 20, 2026. The Paddle Antrim Festival celebrates the amazing waterways and communities of Northern Michigan. The Festival, always the second weekend after Labor Day, includes a two-day paddle event through the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. Paddle one day or two days and choose the distance that is best for your paddling ability and desired distance/time on the water. NEW this year! Please note that the Festival is taking place Friday - Sunday (instead of Thursday - Saturday). Tandem paddlers please note: each individual participant must complete their own registration. Registration Includes the Following: Shuttle service (for people not boats - see more information on shuttles below) A great time both on and off the water! Paddle Antrim Festival t-shirt Festival Sticker Boat Number Waterproof course map Motorized boats outlining the route Paid security to watch boats overnight Restrooms at each launch and checkpoint Kick-off Party in Ellsworth Block Party at Shorts Brewing Companys Bellaire Beer Garden Final Bash at Shorts Brewing Companys Elk Rapids Pull Barn Schedule of Events: Friday Festival Prep Paddling Classes 12:00 - 2:00 pm – Festival Prep: Paddling Strokes ($45 registration add-on) 2:30 - 5:00 pm - Basic Rescue Skills ($55 registration add-on) Kick-off Party hosted by the Village of Ellsworth Ellsworth River Park (6625 Bridge St.) 2:00 - 7:00 pm Paddle Expo Boat demos Paddler Check-in, boat drop off, and boat wash station open. 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Live music Food truck SATURDAY - DAY 1 Paddler Check-in 8:00 - 9:00 am – Ellsworth River Park ( Google Directions ) Packet pick-up Breakfast & coffee will be available to those who purchased with registration. Hydration station (bring your own refillable water bottle) Safety Brief 9:00 am – Ellsworth River Park (6625 Bridge St.) - All paddlers must be in attendance. Full Group Launch! 9:15 am Central Lake Finish Line/Checkpoint 1 10:30 am