Every October, witches, wizards, sorcerers, and warlocks gather to spread Halloween cheer while paddleboarding on the Willamette River during the annual Stand Up Paddleboard Witch Paddle. Hundreds of people dressed in amazing costumes participate in the event, which takes place at Willamette Park in South Portland
Portland Stand Up Paddleboard Witches on the Willamette, also known as SUP WOW, usually takes place on a Saturday before Halloween, starting at about 11 am. The 6-mi (10-km) course is for experienced stand-up paddlers only. Participants are expected to catch the current in the river near Willamette Park, paddle north to the Hawthorne Bridge in downtown Portland, and then go back. However, some witches choose to just go around Ross Island. The wind and rain are the main problems that paddlers can face on their course, however, usually, the weather in Portland is still pretty good in late October.
The event, which was initiated in 2018 by a group of Portland SUP enthusiasts, is free. However, participants and spectators are encouraged to donate to local charities, such as Stumptown Strays, Cascade AIDS Project, and Our House of Portland.
