The Penn Cove Water Festival will be held in Coupeville on Saturday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This festival relies heavily on local support and participation. Native American canoe races continue to be a central part of the festivities. Crews from the Swinomish, Samish, Nooksack, Lummi, and other tribal groups have been invited. But Penn Cove Water Festival offers so much more than the chance to watch other people row.

While only organized crews can take part in the actual canoe races, anyone can participate in the Penn Cove Paddle. The Paddle is open to anyone with a non-motorized, sea-worthy vessel. All participants must wear personal floatation devices and adhere to the instructions/directions.

Boats will need to be portaged from the parking areas along Alexander (north of the library) to the base of the Coupeville Wharf. Consider it part of the competition.

For more information on the Penn Cove Paddle or the Water Festival, call 679-7327.