MEC Paddlefest Victoria

Saturday, June 30, 2012 at Willow’s Beach

MEC Paddlefest

About MEC Paddlefest

MEC Paddlefest is an urban celebration of all things paddlesport related. Whether you’re a beginner who’s never been in a boat, or an expert paddler looking to fine-tune your skills, there are plenty of learning opportunities both on water, and on land. Come make a splash with us at MEC Paddlefest Victoria.

Registration

MEC Paddlefest is an excellent opportunity to connect to Victoria’s active and diverse paddling community, and to learn about all types of self-propelled watersports activities. So come join the fun! This free event has something for everyone, so bring the whole family down to the sweetest paddling celebration of the summer.

Registration will open a few weeks before the event date.

Events

Paddle Swap

A new feature at this year’s event is the MEC Paddle Swap. This event is modeled after our annual MEC Gear Swap but will feature only watersports related items. We welcome you to sign up for a table and pass on any used gear you no longer need to someone who can still find a use for it.

How to get there

Willows Beach is a short distance from Oak Bay Village. Please remember there is limited parking available at Willows Beach, so unless you’re bringing a boat and gear, please try to use alternate forms of transportation such as walking, biking, or public transit. See below for BC Transit directions.

  • Driving: From the MEC store in Victoria, head north
  • Public Transit: To reach MEC Paddlefest at Willows Beach, visit the Victoria Regional Transit System for schedules, route maps, and fare information.

View Larger Map

Participation

Everyone is welcome at MEC Paddlefest! As always we’ll be offering a wide variety of courses for all levels of paddlers, including on-water and on-land clinics. We welcome families at MEC Paddlefest. However, if your child will be attending workshops, you’ll need to attend the same workshops with them. There is no childcare, and you will need to supervise your children.

In the event it is raining on MEC Paddlefest day, we will still run courses as long as it’s safe to be on the water. Many of the on-land workshops will have temporary shelters. So it will happen, rain or shine, please dress appropriately.

What to bring

Bring your boat! While MEC and many other vendors will be providing boats for courses, there are never enough. Canoes and kayaks of all types are welcome. Your boat will be for your personal use in on-water workshops. While we will have some PFDs, paddles and, sprayskirts, please bring your own gear along if you have it. If you’re planning on getting wet, please remember to bring appropriate immersion clothing.

Bring a change of clothes, snacks, and water. While the event is free, you may want to buy food and beverages at Kiwanis Tea House or at either Oak Bay Village or Estevan Village on Estevan St.

Who to contact

For information, to volunteer, or to become an exhibitor, please contact:

Sponsors

Level III

Seals Sprayskirts