Ohio River Paddlefest
- Date
- August 1st
- Time
- 7:00 AM–2:00 PM
- Age
- Ages 4–12
- Cost
- Youth $20–$25; adults $60–$65 through July 25 and $70–$75 afterward
Schmidt Recreation Complex
2944 Humbert Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226 · Directions
East End
Nearly 2,000 paddlers take to the temporarily closed Ohio River in canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for Paddlefest’s 25th anniversary. The 2026 event also includes an attempt to set a record for the largest paddle-craft party.
Races begin at 7 a.m., recreational paddlers depart from 7:15 a.m., and the put-in closes at 8:30 a.m. Families can choose a 4.5-mile route ending at Public Landing or a 9-mile route ending at Gilday Riverside Park; the Finish Line Festival and final shuttle conclude at 2 p.m.
Paddlers must be at least 4. Youth registration is $20 for the 4.5-mile route or $25 for the 9-mile route. Adult prices rise after July 25. Registration is required, and families should review the official safety, equipment, shuttle, and parking instructions before participating.