June 04, 2015
Danielle Redden/Tidal Schuylkill Boat Parade
The 2014 Tidal Schuylkill Boat Parade floats on.
Ever wanted to join a boat parade? Well, the Tidal Schuylkill Boat Parade, part of the Bartram's Garden Community River Fest, is answering your wishes. Since 2011, the event has gathered families and friends in crazy outfits for an 8-mile trip up the Schuylkill.
Sunday, June 14, paraders will depart from the Batram's Garden Community Boathouse promptly at noon. Anyone can enter, and no registration is required; all you need is something that floats and a costume. It's almost like the Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby, but on water.
Paraders with floats, boats or other watercraft should head down at high tide to the load-in area. For paraders without floats, a limited number of kayaks and canoes will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Spectators can watch the parade, which proceeds until 2 p.m., or hang out at the River Fest, which will feature a petting zoo, a bike rodeo, a farmers market and more.
Little Baby's Ice Cream will serve ice cream to paraders from a floating ice cream shop (naturally), while floating brass band Reverse Birds will play on the water. Invisible River will perform a paddleboard-based dance number, and Rhododendron Flotilla will re-enact John Bartram's trip up the river.
Awards will be given out for best craft, best costumes and more. Float on!
