Information on LRCA's RiverFest 2026

The Lackawanna River Conservation Association (LRCA) is excited to announce our spring paddle on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Because the paddle last May was such a success, we are doing the same route from Riverfront Park in Dickson City to Sweeney's Beach. Again, this will be a sojourn paddle and not a timed race.

RiverFest, our largest fundraiser of the year, is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Lackawanna River and support the LRCA's ongoing efforts to protect and preserve this valuable resource. We rely on your participation to help us enjoy this cherished annual rite of spring. Join us for an afternoon of family-friendly fun at our new location, Parker Street Landing!

LRCA's RiverFest Sojourn Paddle

The LRCA has joined the American Canoe Association (ACA) as an affiliate organization. Insurance coverage is being provided through the ACA for the RiverFest '26 Sojourn paddle. ACA members are entitled to a discounted registration fee of $25. Please consider becoming a member of the ACA. Non-ACA members must purchase one-day event insurance for $10.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026 (paddle rain date, May 9)
Launch Location: Riverfront Park, Dickson City (The Dog Park)
Landing Location: Sweeney's Beach, Scranton
Registration: Cost is $25 for ACA members and $35 for non-ACA members. Registration closes online on Thursday, April 30, at 11:59 PM. We are offering a shuttle from Sweeney's Beach to the launch at Parker St. Landing in the morning only. You must register in advance by April 30. No registration on day of the event.

Logistics for Participants:

Kayak Rental: There are a limited number of single kayaks available for rent (additional $55) from our vendor partner. You will be given the link to reserve your kayak in the LRCA registration confirmation email.
Own Boat Drop-off: If you are bringing your own kayak or canoe, you may drop it off at the designated area at Riverfront Park in Dickson City between 8:45 AM and 9:15 AM. Please arrive before 9:15 AM to ensure smooth access, as the rental vendor will be utilizing the drop-off loop after that time. ALL VEHICLES MUST BE TAKEN TO SWEENEY'S PARKING AREA - NO EXCEPTIONS.
Transportation/Vehicle Relocation: A morning shuttle is being provided at 9:45 AM from Poplar St. (the street nearest Sweeney's Beach).
Participants using their own boats should drop them off at Riverfront Park, then drive your vehicle to the parking area at Sweeney's Beach in Scranton. A shuttle service will be provided to transport you back to Riverfront Park for the launch. The shuttle will leave promptly at 9:45 AM.
Participants using rental kayaks will also park at Sweeney's Beach to be shuttled to Dickson City. Please arrive by 9:30 AM to park and check in. The shuttle will leave promptly at 9:45 AM.
Launch Time: The paddle will launch at 11 AM from Riverfront Park in Dickson City.
Paddle Route: The scenic paddle down the Lackawanna River to Sweeney's Beach is anticipated to take approximately 1.5 hours.

Sojourn Rules:

Please comply with the directives of the safety team.
The sojourn paddle is not a race. Stay behind the lead boat.
No alcohol or drugs.
PFDs are required.
NO REFUNDS. If you cannot attend, you may contact us by 3 p.m. on the Friday prior to RiverFest to transfer your registration. No-shows will be considered a donation.

Register for the sojourn here!

RiverFest Celebration at Parker St. Landing (11:30 AM - 2 PM):

Join us for an afternoon of family-friendly fun at our new location, Parker Street Landing! Paddlers, have your friends and family gather to watch you paddle by Parker Street Landing around 11:30 AM. The RiverFest celebration will feature:

Food Vendors: Delicious food from Sumthin Fishy Goin On and refreshing beverages from Lacka Lemonade.
Live Music: Enjoy live entertainment provided by Jeremy Burke from Noon to 2 PM.
Educational Exhibits: Explore informative and engaging exhibits from partner organizations.

Volunteer: This event requires many eager people to volunteer. Please contact the LRCA during office hours, Tuesday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at (570)347-6311, or email lrca@lrca.org to register as a volunteer. Thank you!