Water and Dirt Festival Showcases Ottawa Valley’s Thrilling Outdoor Celebration!
The Ottawa Valley is known for its abundance of water and dirt, and the town of Petawawa is harnessing these natural resources to create a one-of-a-kind event. The second annual Water and Dirt Festival is a three-week extravaganza that highlights the region’s outdoor activities and extreme sports. With a variety of events to choose from, participants can explore everything from paddling to mountain biking, trail runs, volleyball, and more. This year, the festival has doubled in size, attracting 1,200 competitors from near and far.
We are surrounded by water, trails, nature, and we just want to show everyone what we have here, says Petawawa recreation coordinator Colin Coyle. The festival not only aims to provide thrilling experiences for participants but also acts as a vehicle for tourism. Visitors from as far as New York, Toronto, and even Florida have flocked to the Ottawa Valley to take part in the festival and discover the area’s natural wonders. The hope is that these visitors may be enticed to return for future vacations and even rent cottages, boosting the local economy.
Saturday was filled with an array of exciting events. Canoeists, kayakers, and paddleboarders were invited to bring their furry friends to Melissa Bishop Park for a Doggy Paddle in support of the local SPCA. In addition, BMX and mountain bikers showcased their skills in a thrilling dirt jump competition. Kemptville-based mountain biker Josh Tessier expressed his excitement for the festival, stating, This is a big eye-opener for how many different events the township can actually run.
The Water and Dirt Festival also featured a new event this year – beach volleyball. Taking advantage of the region’s stunning beaches, volleyball enthusiasts gathered to play in the sand and get a little dirty. We’ve got amazing beaches here in the Ottawa Valley, and we thought what better way to celebrate than by playing some beach volleyball outside and getting dirty, says volleyball tournament director Connie Ladas. Players like Levi Vermeer acknowledged the festival’s success in attracting a diverse crowd, saying, I got a couple of friends who came here not even for the volleyball, but just to see the container market. They are going mini-golfing. So it’s getting more people out here. We’re having fun.
The Water and Dirt Festival continues to run in Petawawa and surrounding areas until August 27th. With its range of exciting events and picturesque natural landscapes, it is no wonder that this outdoor celebration is capturing the attention of both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway, the Water and Dirt Festival promises endless thrills and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.
