‘It’s just a delight’: Holiday Paddle Parade lights up Deschutes River in Bend

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) - Paddlers turned the Deschutes River into a floating holiday display Friday evening, lighting up the water with festive decorations during Bend’s annual Holiday Paddle Parade.

The annual event is hosted by Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe.

"We've really seen kind of the level of decorations really amped up over the last several years," said Sue Fox, manager of Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe.

The parade draws both local residents and visitors from out of town each year.

One paddler said, “Everyone has spent a lot of time decorating their boats. And it’s just a delight.”

Fox said the warm weather helped boost turnout.

“The weather is fantastic. And that really drives the number of people that show up to paddle,” she said.

Kolleen Miller of the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council was also on the river, highlighting the organization’s work in river restoration, monitoring and watershed education.

“We’re very excited to be on the river,” Miller said. “Tumalo Creek has been sponsors for our annual Deschutes River cleanup event, which we coordinate every summer to help clean up the river.”

While the lights and decorations add to the fun, organizers remind participants to decorate responsibly and make sure everything is secured.

Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe says keeping decorations in place helps protect the river and keep it clean.