As dusk approaches on Friday evening, the Deschutes River will illuminate with the passing glow of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and other watercraft.

Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe’s annual Holiday Lights Paddle Parade, which poses both a participation and a spectator sport, embodies the holiday spirit with a growing number of attendees each year.

Last year, paddlers braved blizzard conditions to float the river with lit-up Christmas trees fastened to the stern of their kayaks, inflatable Minions as passengers and strings of glowing lights wrapped around their boats and bodies.

“It’s just all pure spirit,” said Sue Fox, director of sales and events at Tumalo Creek. “It’s what I think the season is about. It’s not buying all the gifts and all that. It’s just being together.”

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Come one, come all

Tumalo Creek has toyed with the idea of hosting a contest for the best-decorated watercraft, but has ultimately done away with the idea in favor of celebrating all participants, regardless of the extent of decorations on each paddler’s vessel, Fox said.

While some parade participants have been paddling for 20 years, others have two years of experience or may have arrived in Bend two months ago, Fox said.

“Come one and come all and get to know your community,” she said.

Fox credits owner of Tumalo Creek, Geoff Frank, for upholding the magic of the holiday event year after year.

“It’s certainly his generosity that has brought people together,” Fox said.

Tips for spectators and paddlers

Spectators may view the parade from the paved paths along the Deschutes River Trail, but the optimal spot to watch is from the Old Mill District’s pedestrian bridge, according to Fox.

Paddlers will need to bring battery-operated lights and are welcome to park in the Tumalo Creek storefront parking lot and show up to decorate their boats as early as needed. Fox suggests being mindful of any loose decorations such as confetti or glitter, that could fall off the watercraft and compromise the health of the river.

Fox also recommends that paddlers bundle up and bring life jackets onboard. According to Oregon law, a personal floatation device must be on board for each adult and worn by children 12 years old and younger.

Tumalo Creek will hold an after-party with complimentary festive refreshments after the parade.

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Holiday cheer at the Old Mill District

Leading up to the event, the Old Mill District will host SantaLand between Sweet Tooth Candy Shoppe and Sunglass Hut, an opportunity for families to chat and take photos with Santa.

Beau Eastes, marketing director at the Old Mill District, said the parade is a favorite winter tradition of many.

“It’s a mix of everything we love in Bend — outdoor recreation, community, the Deschutes River and creativity — all mixed in with a lot of fun and funkiness. Massive props to Tumalo Creek for rallying everyone together for such an amazing event that is just as much fun for spectators as it is for the paddlers.”

What: Tumalo Creek Holiday Lights Paddle Parade

When: 4-7 p.m. Friday

Where: The Deschutes River between the Colorado Avenue bridge and Riverbend Park

Cost: Free

Contact: Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe at 541-317-9407 or tumalocreek.com

“It’s just all pure spirit. It’s what I think the season is about. It’s not buying all the gifts and all that. It’s just being together.”