Riverkeeper's New York Water Fest: A Water Celebration

Water Fest is a day devoted to celebrating New York City water – the water we drink, the water we play in, and the water that surrounds us. Join Riverkeeper, New York’s #1 water protector, for a day of fun on the Hudson with paddling events, music, food and more. You’ll have a chance to take the NYC Tap Water Taste Test and learn about ways you can get involved in the crusade for safe water in your home and community. Event Details: Water City Featuring live music, great food, wellness and relaxation tents and New York’s leading clean water advocates ready to answer your water questions and challenge you to Take Back the Tap. At North Cove Marina, overlooking the Hudson River, open 12 - 5pm. Paddle Rally On-water activities that allow first-time, beginner and advanced paddlers to safely experience the dynamic water surrounding Manhattan Island and its neighboring boroughs. Big Apple Splash: Raft down the Hudson River with friends, family and a certified professional guide as part of this 5-mile raft flotilla from Pier 96 to Water City at North Cove Marina. Each raft can hold 10-12 paddlers, no experience required. Kayak Poker Run: Play to win as part of this paddle rally that travels to five different locations playing Five Card Draw. Travel at your own pace and arrive at Water City, North Cove Marina, with your cards by 3pm. Cash prizes will be awarded to the paddlers with the highest and lowest hands. From 10am – 3pm, paddling experience required. Floating Meditation: Allow your spirit to soar while floating in a kayak on nature’s moving energy - water. Join the creator of Floating Mediation in this two-hour program that combines world-class paddling instruction and a guided meditation. At Pier 40, 8am – 10am for experienced paddlers and 11am – 1pm for beginning paddlers. Walk Up Kayaking: Enjoy a free 20-minute sit-on-top kayaking program, provided by the Downtown Boathouse from 9:00am to 6:00pm at their Pier 40 or Pier 96 locations. No experience required. Skill Demonstrations: View and learn about the sport of kayaking. Rolling, edging, bracing, equipment overview and a flatwater/whitewater playboat session will be demonstrated at the North Cove Marina at 12:00pm and 3:00pm. Beginner Kayak Lesson: for the beginner and novice seeking a quick introduction to the foundations of safe and efficient sea paddling. Introduction to the marine environment, sea kayak safety and design, equipment and paddling basics. At Pier 40, 9:30am -12:30pm. For more information and to register, please visit www.nywaterfest.org For volunteer opportunities please email hlook@riverkeeper.org