Potomac Pride Paddle

May 2023

person sitting at booth interacting with a child
Sanctuary staff engage with visitors at an outreach event. Credit: Erica Deale/ Courtesy of The Mariners Museum and Park

Take pride in yourself and take pride in your national marine sanctuary by joining Mallows Bay–Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary as we celebrate Ocean Month and LGBT Pride Month in conjunction with the #PrideInTheOcean campaign! The event is hosted at no cost to participants, as we seek only to honor and commemorate the month.

You are invited to join us on June 24 from 10 am to 3 pm for a fun-filled day of recreation on the Potomac River with Atlantic Kayak. The day will also include on-land games, along with arts and crafts for everyone! This event aims to create a safe space for folks in the LGBTQ+ community and allies to recreate and enjoy their favorite outdoor spaces.
In addition, there will be a boat decorating competition in Mattingly Avenue Park! Bring your own vessel, or rent a kayak from Atlantic Kayak Company. Visit Atlantic Kayak to learn more.

 

Date: Saturday, June 24th, 10:00am - 3:00pm

Location: Mattingly Avenue Park, 108 Mattingly Ave, Indian Head, MD 20640

  • Starting at 10:00 we will begin our Pride Boat decorating contest! Bring your own vessel or rent a kayak for a special price. Teams decorate their boat before heading out on the water to show off their PrideInTheOcean!
  • For those not participating in the boat contest, there will be games and activities for all!
  • As a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, we highly recommend you do so!

When you arrive, look for the blue NOAA tent for check-in.

Contact mallows.bay@noaa.gov for questions or concerns. View a flier with more information on the Pride event.

Things to bring:

  • Watercraft! Kayaks will also be available to rent at a special price!
  • Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and other safety supplies
  • A picnic lunch and water
  • Rain gear (just in case)
  • Environmentally safe boat decorations!
  • Sunscreen/hat