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ILWACO — Black Lake was brimming last weekend, as dozens of witches, wizards and warlocks descended for the third annual Witches Paddle fundraiser last Saturday in Ilwaco, kicking off a week of Halloween festivities along the Long Beach Peninsula.

Organizer Natasha Beals was pleased with the turnout and participation of the event, aimed at raising funds for the Ilwaco Fire Department and South Pacific County Technical Rescue team, both of whom were on hand along with hundreds of attendees and about 50 witches — and at least three wizards — on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Black Lake.

“The dedication of Pacific Northwest residents never ceases to amaze me — high winds couldn’t keep these witches off their boards!” Beals said.

Pull Quote

‘The dedication of Pacific Northwest residents never ceases to amaze me — high winds couldn’t keep these witches off their boards!’

Organizer Natasha Beals

“Seeing everyone come together, rain or shine, to support this event fills my heart with gratitude. A lot of effort goes into making it happen, and it’s incredibly uplifting to witness the community’s enthusiasm and commitment.”

After a humble beginning with just a handful of participants in its first year, the event has continued to grow. It now includes a dedicated night before the event where witches craft their signature pointy hats.

“I’m especially touched by the creativity and spirit everyone brings to the Witches Paddle. People don’t just show up in costume — they go all out, decorating their paddleboards, adding themed decorations, bringing music, and even staging elaborate displays, like the Jeep taken over by a kraken! This level of effort truly makes the event something special,” Beals said.

“And as a boating enthusiast, I have to say there’s nothing quite like joining in the fun dressed in an inflatable flamingo costume, floating on a raft platform, and getting towed by a green witch in a rowboat — making the whole experience even more magical!”

Beals thanked several community organizations and sponsors for helping make the event possible, including Akaw Homes, WakeTV, Ilwaco Cider Co., Discover Ilwaco, Grooming Garage, the City of Ilwaco, Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Kraken Kafe, as well as several volunteers.

“Their support is what makes this event possible, and I’m deeply grateful for their commitment,” Beals said.

Beals estimated that approximately 50 witches participated, with hundreds of others showing up in support.

“It was hard to keep track, but we estimate several hundred people joined us on land throughout the day, with about 45-55 participants paddling on the water. Over 300 had RSVP’d ahead of time, and we were thrilled with the turnout,” Beals said. “My partner, Michele Gutierrez, and I are passionate about any chance to be outdoors and connect with nature, and this fall paddle is always a magical experience. It’s a joy to meet such incredible ‘witches’ on and off the water.”

Beals noted that, even if you missed the event, a raffle is still ongoing at Kraken Kafe, with a drawing of winners announced live at 11:30 a.m. on Halloween day this Thursday. “After which we’ll announce the total raised for the Ilwaco Fire Department and South Pacific County Technical Rescue,” she said.

For anyone interested in getting involved in the event next year, Beals encourages you to reach out to the ‘Sup Witches’ Facebook page or e-mail her at realtyonelife@gmail.com.