Donner Lake · 2026

Free community gathering

Weather Reschedule:

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Arrive at 9am to get settled · 9:30am ritual · 10am launch your broomstick on the water!

A magical morning on Donner Lake

Donner Lake Witch Paddle

A costumed paddler in a pointed witch hat beside a turquoise paddleboard on the shore of Donner Lake at sunset.
Photo by Faye McSword
Video by Ronan Stonebrook
A group of costumed paddlers gathered on Donner Lake beneath a bright blue sky.
Photo by Griselda Applebottom
Three costumed witches and two dogs pose beside a tree at Donner Lake.
Photo by Griselda Applebottom
A group of costumed witches pose together on the shore of Donner Lake.
Photo by Griselda Applebottom
A costumed paddler and dog share a turquoise paddleboard on calm Donner Lake.
Photo by Faye McSword
A smiling costumed paddler sits on a paddleboard beneath stormy skies on Donner Lake.
Photo by Faye McSword
A costumed paddler with dark wings stands on a paddleboard on Donner Lake.
Photo by Faye McSword
A laughing witch in a pointed hat holds skeleton decorations at Donner Lake.
Photo by Faye McSword
A winged costumed paddler is seen from behind on Donner Lake.
Photo by Faye McSword
A smiling witch in a flowing hat stands on a paddleboard with a small green familiar.
Photo by Faye McSword

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Witches, warlocks, werewolves, and their friendly familiars are invited to a free community costume paddle!

Participate in our ritual and intention setting before the paddle, or just join us to haunt the lake!

RSVPAdd to calendar

Questions? donnerwitchpaddle@gmail.com

Optional offering opportunity

Bring an offering

Our coven is collecting gently used cloaks (coats) for local witches and warlocks who need extra protection against the winter frost. Please no holes or broken zippers. All cloaks will be donated to Truckee Community Cares.

Meeting place

Find the gathering

The map pin marks the public picnic table at the shoreline end of the path on Dog Beach.

Open in Google Maps

Planning coven answers

Frequently asked questions

What's the history of this event?

Witch paddles have become a fall tradition in communities across the country, including several around Lake Tahoe and others on Donner Lake.

Our friend group has held its own unofficial paddle earlier in the month in years past, and this year we decided to grow it into a bigger community event. Along with ritual and intention setting, we're collecting coats to help local witches and warlocks stay warm this winter.

Come for the pointy hats and paddling, leave a little more magic and warmth behind. 🌙

Check out other local Witch Paddle events: South Lake Tahoe | Folsom Lake

Where are we launching this year?

Dog Beach! However, launching elsewhere on the lake is absolutely fine. Just know we'll be gathering just off Dog Beach on the east end of the lake, next to the Tahoe Donner Marina (closed for the season), and heading west.

Do I need to RSVP?

It's not mandatory, but you'll be plugged into the latest details from the planning coven, including any weather delays or changes.

When is the rescheduled event?

The Witch Paddle has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 17. Arrive at 9am to get settled, join the ritual at 9:30am, and launch your broomstick on the water at 10am!

RSVP to receive any final event updates from the planning coven.

Are witchy or warlock costumes mandatory?

Being in the spirit of the season is strongly encouraged for maximum fun! However, Muggles will be welcomed, so don't let a lack of costume deter you from participating.

Can I rent a paddlecraft?

There will not be any rentals available at the event.

Should I wear a life jacket?

Witch Flotation Devices are encouraged! You are paddling at your own risk. Costumes and cloaks can be heavy and difficult if you fall off. Please only paddle if you are comfortable on your paddlecraft.

Do I have to paddle, or can I just take part in the ceremony?

We welcome participation of any kind! Come for any or all portions of the event.

I saw another Witch Paddle happening on a different day. Is that the same?

There are many Witch Covens in Truckee! We're excited for as many opportunities to haunt the lake as possible. Want to combine covens for next year? Email us!