Bright, colorful fun on the water: Tumalo Creek’s Holiday Lights Paddle Parade returns to the Deschutes in Bend

Jillian Fortner will be live tonight on NewsChannel 21

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Yet another fun, bright and colorful holiday tradition is back in Bend: Brightly lit kayaks, canoes and paddle boards will light up the Deschutes River Friday night at Tumalo Creek’s Holiday Lights Paddle Parade. 

"There's just a great energy about it." said the manager of Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe, Sue Fox. "Everybody seems to be really excited and just enjoying the spirit of the season."

Those heading out on the water will gather near Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe shop near the Bend Whitewater Park and make their way upriver. A variety of watercraft will be decorated with twinkling lights, ornaments and other holiday-themed embellishments.

Fox says the annual event typically sees around 100 watercraft on the river, though the number can vary depending on the weather. It draws participants from across Oregon and even other states.

"They're coming from other markets like Portland and Eugene. I know one group of people flying in from San Francisco." Fox added.

The event runs from 4pm to 7pm. 

Jillian Fortner will be reporting live from the scene tonight on NewsChannel 21.