Swapping brooms for paddles at the 2024 Bend Witches Paddle, a fun Halloween event now in its fifth year
(update: adding video, comments from MorningStar)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bend Witches Paddle returned for its fifth year Thursday evening. Each Halloween, Central Oregonians gather at Riverbend Park in their best witch costumes to paddleboard together.
MountainStar Family Relief Nursery is the beneficiary of this year’s event. The nonprofit organization provides essential prevention services for early childhood abuse and neglect.Â
"Witches paddles happen all across the country, so it's just a really cool tradition that we're really excited to bring to Bend and to keep keep alive in Bend." MountainStar Development Director Staley Micken said.
They encourage attendees to bring donations such as diapers, wipes, personal hygiene items, and perishable food. Direct donations are greatly appreciated as well.
Kara Tachikawa, MountainStar's executive director, said, "We just hope that lots of people continue to brave the weather and come out and support a great cause."