Paddle To The Symphony 2018

For over 20 years, Kensington Metropark in Milford, has been the home to Paddle to the Symphony. Once again, the event returns to the park and to Kent Lake for an evening of music and paddling. The Michigan Philharmonic performs a free concert at 7:30 p.m. on Maple Beach. However, Paddle to the Symphony goers will meet on the other side of the lake on the shoreline of North Martindale Beach – hence the term “paddle to the symphony.”

Started by the Michigan Council of Hostelling International, Paddle to the Symphony is now a celebration of Southeast Michigan outdoor enthusiasts and a reunion for the founders. Michigan Friends of Hostelling International and SOLAR Outdoors (both non-profits groups) have had a long history of collaborating with this event. Open to everyone to enjoy, Paddle to the Symphony celebrates an outdoor activity with a cultural experience.

This year’s Paddle to the Symphony will be Saturday, July 14. SOLAR, along with Heavner Canoe and several online Meetup Groups join forces for the evening on the water, while enjoying the sounds of the Michigan Philharmonic. This year’s theme is “Rock, Pop, and Soul.”

The concert is a popular event; paddlers avoid parking and traffic issues by starting from and returning to the other side of the park. Those attending the paddle event need to register in advance. While the concert is free, there is a modest fee to participate in the paddle event (6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.).

Heavner Canoe, a long-time partner with the annual tradition, will be providing the canoes and kayaks. They have special permission to launch from the shoreline. The cost is $30.00 per person ($25 for SOLAR and Hostelling International Members). Those bringing their own canoe or kayak will pay only $15.00 ($10.00 for members). The fee goes toward the transportation and launching of the boats, the special launch area, assistance in/out of the area, and refreshments. Details and registration at the Paddle Website.