Kick off adventure season in style at NOC’s annual celebration of spring and whitewater! Experienced paddlers enjoy the thrill of the Upper Nantahala and Cascades River Releases, plus a full weekend of high-water rafting action, live music, demo boats, paddlesports vendors, “science of the outdoors” activities, mini-beer fest, and the local artisan market!
US Open Slalom & Kayak Cross| 8am-12pm
This national-level slalom and kayak cross event on the Nantahala is a Southeastern classic. Everyone is invited to compete against the country’s top whitewater athletes, including Olympians.
Registration to come
River Releases | 10am-4pm
250 CFS Whitewater Kaykers and Paddlers, take advantage of our Free boater shuttles provided by NOC Paddling School. Shuttles start at 10am to 3pm. Please park at the public river access to be picked up.
Artisan Market | 11am-5pm
Join us riverside next to Big Wesser for the local Artisan Market. Shop for local jewelry, pottery, unique creations, and fresh goods from talented artisans and farmers.
Paddlesports Vendor Booths | 12-5pm
Chat directly with your favorite paddlesports gear vendors right on the bank of the Nantahala. Check out new season gear and get a chance to demo new boats!
The Science of Outdoors | 12-4pm
Appalachian Rivers Aquarium brings the wonders of native Appalachian waterways to life, featuring freshwater fish, amphibians, reptiles, and other river species—including the state-endangered Eastern Hellbender. Visit their booth to connect with a representative from the Fly Fishing Museum of Bryson City as well!
The NOC tent, plant a native starter plant and receive a butterfly sticker while helping support local biodiversity. Guests can also enjoy an engaging talk from NOC’s own Betsy about the Noonday Snail, one of the Nantahala Gorge’s endangered species.
The Foamie Friends Water Display’s tent you can explore in scale how paddlers and water interact!
Face Painting by Macon Faces will be there to paint your favorite outdoor critters to make it festive!
Mini Beer Fest | 12-5pm
Come to the Backyard at Big Wesser where you can visit with three of the area’s leading breweries; you can purchase $2 tokens to get mini pints and try all of their newest products. If you like them, you can get full pints at Big Wesser or Switchbacks taps!
More details to come
Live Music | 2pm-8pm
Enjoy local musician Shane Meade from 1-4pm in the Backyard and Log Noggins, 3-piece progressive southern rock band, from 5pm-8pm on our Main stage riverside.