2026 Bangs Falls Whitewater Festival
What is Bangs Falls Whitewater Festival?
For over a decade, Bangs Falls Whitewater Festival, set on the beautiful Medway River, has been a feature of the Nova Scotia whitewater community’s spring season. Whether you’re a regular whitewater paddler or newer to the scene, it’s time to come together, celebrate the longer days and warmer temperatures, and get on the river!
The day is designed to offer something for folks at a variety of different skill levels. A group river run for those with existing river skills, introductory clinics for flatwater paddlers who are keen to experience moving water and, new to this year, a bouncy ball rally race in the afternoon! Spectators, grab your popcorn.
Depending what you sign up for (see deets below!) your registration fee includes; the event, river run or clinic participation, instructors, race entry, a chance at winning fabulous prizes, gear and boat rental, and (almost) guaranteed good times! And probably some great snacks.
The event’s purpose is to bring the whitewater community together and provide opportunities to get on the river - no profit will be made and registration is priced to reflect that. We’re super grateful to be getting the generous support of Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia, Paddle Canada, Old Creel, Candlebox Kayaking - of which the event wouldn’t be possible without!
Registration opens at 9am on Friday 10th April.
Stoked to see you on the river!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the schedule
Everyone
- 8:00 – Waiver’s and Safety Brief @ Bangs Falls
Kayak Intro Clinic participants
- 8:30 - Kayak Intro starts (Gear up and have some fun!)
River Run participants
- 9:00 - River Run Shuttle shuffle!
Everyone
- 15:00 - Bangs Falls Bouncy Ball Rally - For EVERYONE, spectators welcome!
Do I have to register?
Yes, because this is an organized event you must register and sign waivers to participate
What not to bring
Whitewater paddling requires your full focus and concentration. Therefore, all aspects of this event are substance free; so please leave any substances at home. If any leader believes that you may be under the influence of a substance you will not be able to participate in the event.
River Run - $40 Bring your own boat
What skills does someone have to have
All paddlers on the river run must have the following competencies
- Comfort and control in Class II whitewater
- For enclosed craft, or craft with skirts - experience and comfort wet exiting in current
- Sufficient paddling skill in Class II water to maunever the boat as directed by event leaders
What types of craft are allowed
All craft that are built and intended for whitewater environments are welcome!
You must have the following equipment
- Flotation sufficient to keep the craft above water if it flips
- Sufficient structural components to maintain the safety of the paddler(s) (recreational kayaks do not qualify)
Event leaders reserve the right to refuse particpation if the craft is deemed to be unsafe.
What safety equipment must I have
All Transport Canada and Paddle Canada required safety equipment will be present on the paddle, all participants must have
- PFD in good working order
- Throwbag
- Paddle
- Whitewater Helmet (Other styles of helmets are not allowed)
Kayak Intro Clinic - $100 includes kayak, gear and a drysuit!
Who should join the Kayak Intro clinic
The clinic is intended for people who have paddled a kayak before, and are comfortable with a wet exit with a skirt on.
What to expect
You will spend 3-4 hours on the water with a Paddle Canada River Kayak instructor learning the basics of Whitewater Kayaking in a comfortable, fun and safe Class I environment! You will get wet, but don’t worry your fee includes a drysuit!
What do I need?
Clinic participants fee includes a full whitewater kayaking kit rental from Candlebox Kayaking! You just need to bring the following
- 2 Pairs of Clothes, on water should be non-cotton and warm enough for the water tempature
- Snacks! - whitewater kayaking takes lots of energy, so bring snacks!
You will be close to your car(s) at all times, and extra clothing and snacks can be stored in them.