The 2016 Paddle to the Symphony
For over 20 years, Kensington Metropark in Milford, Michigan, 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. Friends of Hostelling International-Michigan 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.
The Music and Canoe Partners
The Michigan Philharmonic and Conductor Nan Washburn “… are excited to bring our Star Wars & Sci-Phonic Favorites program to the Metroparks this summer. With the new Star Wars movie out this year we thought it would be a great time to celebrate lots great adventure movie and video game music in one concert. In addition to Star Wars, the audience will also get to hear music from Jurassic Park, World of Warcraft, Lord of the Rings and Star Trek,” said Washburn. The concert is a popular event; paddlers avoid parking and traffic issues by starting 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.

Enjoying the tunes of the Michigan Philharmonic at the annual Paddle to the Symphony event in Milford – photo by Michael Dwyer
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 $25.00 per person ($20 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.
Here is the Full Day Timeline:
6:00 p.m. Official Paddle Welcome
7:00 – 7:30 p.m. Canoe Launch
7:30 p.m. Concert Starts
9:00 p.m. Canoes Start to Paddle Back
9:30 p.m. All Canoes Return
10:00 p.m. Thank you and Goodnight