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MountainStar Family Relief Nursery (MountainStar) is welcoming fall with two meaningful ways for the Central Oregon community to come together in support of local children and families: the return of the 6thAnnual Bend Witches Paddle and October’s Community Care Project.
On Saturday, October 31, witches will once again take to the Deschutes River for one of Bend’s favorite Halloween traditions. From 3–6 p.m. at Riverbend Park, in partnership with the Old Mill’s Trick or Treat, community members are invited to grab their witch hats, costumes, and paddleboards and join the fun.
The celebration continues MountainStar’s yearlong 25th Anniversary, highlighting the many ways Central Oregon has come together to strengthen families, protect children, and create a community where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Witches Are Taking Over the Deschutes!
Grab your broom… or your paddleboard! The 6th Annual Bend Witches Paddle returns to Riverbend Park on Saturday, October 31, from 3–6 p.m.
What began as a festive Halloween gathering has grown into a beloved community tradition, bringing hundreds of witches, families, spectators, and supporters together along the Deschutes River while raising awareness and support for MountainStar’s mission.
Participants are encouraged to dress in their best witchy attire, decorate their paddleboards, and join fellow witches on the water. Those who prefer to stay on dry land are invited to gather at Riverbend Park, enjoy the festivities, and cheer on the witches as they paddle by.
The event is free to attend, and attendees are encouraged to bring diapers and/or baby wipes to donate to MountainStar families. These everyday essentials are among the most-needed items for families participating in MountainStar programs and are a simple way to make an immediate impact.
“Witches Paddle is such a fun example of what makes Central Oregon special,” said Kara Tachikawa, Executive Director of MountainStar. “It brings people together in a joyful way while also creating an opportunity to share why early family intervention works to prevent child abuse and neglect. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who continues to make this event such a special tradition.”
Whether you paddle, watch from shore, or stop by with a donation, everyone is invited to be part of the magic.
Join MountainStar at Riverbend Park on Saturday, October 31, from 3–6 p.m. for the 6th Annual Bend Witches Paddle. Learn more at mtstar.org.
