Kayakers, Canoeists, and Paddle Boarders Gear Up for Nighttime Adventure on Erie Canal

On Saturday, August 23, Tonawanda's Gateway Harbor will be bustling with excitement as kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders of all levels gather for a unique nighttime adventure on the Erie Canal. Hosted by event organizer David DeMart, the event aims to bring together a community of paddlers for a fun-filled evening on the water.

The event, which begins at 8:30 pm and lasts for two and a half hours, will see participants paddling along the Erie Canal after dark. Participants are encouraged to bring their paddling equipment, as rental companies cannot rent after sunset.

Safety is a top priority for the event, and participants are required to have their lights for their boats, not just for the fun factor but also to ensure they are visible to other ships traveling on the waterway.

Event organizer David DeMart emphasized the importance of having lights, stating,

"Lights are a must! Not only because it's super fun and awesome! But because this is a highly traveled waterway. Boats! The real ones! We'll be traveling along with us."

The event begins at the Tonawanda side of Gateway Harbor and ends at the North Tonawanda Botanical Gardens. Participants are encouraged to use multiple vehicles to accommodate the endpoint, as there will be no shuttle service provided.

This event is open to the public, and all paddlers of any skill level are welcome to join in the fun. For those interested in attending, visit the event page on Facebook to RSVP and get more information.

As the sun sets on August 23, a fleet of kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards will illuminate the Erie Canal, creating a truly memorable experience for all who attend. Be sure to mark your calendars and join in the fun at Tonawanda's Gateway Harbor for this unique nighttime paddling adventure.