A Spellbinding Afternoon on the Water!

This Saturday, I’m heading to Penn Yan to witness what promises to be pure Halloween enchantment—the Witches & Warlocks Paddle! I’ve never seen it before, but I already feel like something magical is brewing along the Outlet.

I can just imagine it now: the water shimmering under autumn sunlight, a flotilla of witches, wizards, and warlocks drifting by in kayaks and paddleboards, their cloaks fluttering, hats bobbing, and paddles glittering like enchanted wands. Maybe a cackle or two will echo across the water, or a “spell” will shimmer in the air as someone raises their paddle just right. I’m bringing my camera, but honestly, I think this is one of those moments best captured by the heart.

The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum dreamed up this event, and it sounds like a perfect mix of fun and fantasy. I love that even safety has its style—life jackets turned into part of the costume, maybe painted with runes or draped in tulle. Only in Penn Yan could practicality look so magical.

After the paddle, I plan to wander over to Outlet 111, where the witches and warlocks will gather for their post-paddle potions—“witchy cocktails,” as they’re calling them. I might just sneak in for a toast, raise my glass to the season, and soak in that sense of community magic.

And of course, I won’t miss Downtown Penn Yan’s Trunk or Treat! I’ve heard it’s a festival of laughter and creativity, with music, candy, costumes, and decorated cars that look straight out of a storybook. Between the giggling kids, the smell of cider and caramel corn, and the town glowing with Halloween spirit, it sounds like the kind of day that wraps you up in wonder.

I don’t know exactly what to expect—but I have a feeling Penn Yan will cast its charm over me the moment I arrive. Maybe I’ll see a broomstick glide by, or catch a sparkle of fairy dust on the breeze. Either way, I can’t wait to be under its spell.

🪄 Footnote: I just received word from the Head Witch herself—Glenda—that not all witches, warlocks, and wizards have signed up yet for this magical time on Keuka. Here are the details! (I do wonder how Glenda knew I was writing about this… perhaps she peeked into her crystal ball. 🔮)

Date & Time: October 18th, 2–4 PM

Location: 111 Liberty St, Penn Yan, NY

🪄 Pricing for Our Bewitching Participants:

$35 – For witches, warlocks, and wizards who need a full magical setup (rental includes all your enchanted paddling gear).

$20 – For those bringing their own trusted broomstick… er, kayak or paddleboard!

Space in our coven is limited, so reserve your spot early before the spellbook closes!

A note from Saunders Finger Lakes Museum:

• Registration for the Witches & Warlocks paddle is open until noon on Friday, October 17th - spots are limited so register soon to join us on the water: https://www.fingerlakesmuseum.org/program/witches-warlocks-paddle

• Route: The spooky crew will be paddling down the outlet trail towards the mouth of Keuka Lake. We anticipate the best viewing spots to be at Indian Pines Park, the Penn Yan Village Boat Launch (off of Water Street), or the trail path between the Liberty Street bridge and Penn Yan Boat Launch. Be on the lookout for their flight between 2-3 PM!

• After party - Paddling participants will be given a ticket for one free mocktail or cocktail, but all are welcome to join us afterwards for the after party at Outlet111

Weather Policy: If the weather casts a trick on us, we’ll notify participants the morning of. Registration can be used as a credit toward a future paddle or refunded if you prefer.

Come ready to paddle, cackle, sprinkle magic, and make a splash in Penn Yan—this Halloween, the town and the water are alive with fun, fantasy, and festivity!

Contact: The Saunders Finger Lakes Museum

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