Paddling party coming to the Lachine Canal this weekend

The Lock & Paddle event kicks off at the Lachine Canal at noon (photo: Parks Canada)

Dozens of colourfully clad canoers and kayakers are expected to take to the Lachine Canal on Saturday for Parks Canada’s free annual paddling party.

The Lock & Paddle event kicks off at noon, with watercraft drop-off starting at 11 a.m. at the Peel Basin dock (31 Mill Street) and free parking nearby at 1151 Mill Street. Departures can also set off from Atwater Market.

Paddlers should budget about 15 minutes to reach Lock 3 of the Saint-Gabriel Lock, where lockages run through the afternoon — the last downstream passage for Peel participants is at 4 p.m.

Organizers are encouraging participants to wear neon — photos will be taken during every lockage.

The event is free and open to all ages and skill levels. There’s no need to register, but everyone on the water must wear a PFD, and each boat needs a sound signalling device, buoyant heaving line and bailer.

Paddleboards are allowed on the canal but barred from the locks for safety reasons.

The event is rain or shine, and smoke- and alcohol-free. Those without a boat can rent through H2O Adventures.

The event includes food from local vendors, on-water safety support, and other activities.