East Coast Paddlesports Symposium

Event Details

The East Coast’s premier paddling event is back in March at James Island County Park. Known as the East Coast Paddlesports Symposium, this three-day event welcomes paddling enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels from around the world.

Held March 29 through 31 this year, the symposium is a three-day immersion in the history, technique, hands-on experience and fun of kayaking and other paddling-related topics. World-renowned instructors and coaches will offer presentations, on-water classes and other programs teaching everything from the basics to expert skills for paddling enthusiasts.

In its 29th year, the symposium has modified its format to offer a more diverse and student-centered experience. After being matched with a small group of paddlers with similar skills and interests, participants will be assigned to a group leader and local instructor and work with a different seasoned coach each day. Groups will meet in the morning, then spend the day learning and traversing some of the area’s best waterways.

This year’s coaches’ lineup will feature a variety of experts in the paddling world, including Nigel Foster, Todd Johnstone-Wright, Helen Wilson and many others.

For further details on the East Coast Paddlesports Symposium or to register, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.

In April, James Island County Park will offer the Charleston Outdoor Fest, which showcases and offers chances to try out a variety of outdoor recreational activities including canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP), mountain biking, slack lining, archery, climbing and disc golf. The Charleston Outdoor Fest is very beginner and family-friendly and will be held April 13-14.


For more information on these events and much more, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386. This event is made possible by Coca-Cola and Charleston County Parks. Sponsorship opportunities are available for these events and more. For more information, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.