Written by: Samantha Caccamo, Hudson Lehew
Cackling laughter over the sound of the rushing river and wide-brimmed hats pointing into the air may seem out of place on a Saturday in Barber Park, but for one October day, Witched on the Water turned the Boise River into a “spook-tacular” waterscape.
Between noon and 3 p.m., dozens of wickedly dressed witches and warlocks swapped their brooms for paddles as the sun shone overhead. Local Holland Jolley started the wicked tradition in 2021, gathering over fifty Halloween enthusiasts.
“It’s so much fun,” Jolley said. “It’s like a sisterhood [and] it’s a great way to start the spooky season with the community for no other reason than to have a great time.”
Jolley found inspiration for the event from her circle of friends when the group decided to “spice up” what could have been the average paddle-boarding trip.
“We were like, ‘Why not?’” Jolley said, her purple wig blowing in the wind. “If we want to dress up as witches on a paddleboard, then there must be other people who want to do it too!”
The route started at the coastline of Barber Park and ended at Ann Morrison Park. Several photo opportunities were available to onlookers as the costume-clad group paddled across the sparkling waters of the Boise River.
The event gathered a multitude of onlookers as the brightly-colored crowd flooded past Friendship Bridge. Cellphones immediately entered the sky, pointing and waving to the witches below.
“I’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Wisconsin resident Haylie Browne, snapping photos of the passing group. “This is amazing, I think everyone’s costume is extremely cute. I definitely want to participate when I visit Boise again.”
Attendees described the enchanting excursion to be the perfect opportunity to flaunt your spooky side.
“The women’s outdoor community is always up to something fun,” added attendee Hannah Gross. I saw it year after year, and I was finally able to come. It’s great to just take a break and play.”
Jolley promoted the event through social media and a Witches on the Water Facebook group comprised of over 350 members.
“There’s always a community that’s not judging your silly questions,” said attendee Rachel Gross-Macomb. “They’re trying to help you figure things out and help you build confidence with whatever you’re doing.”
Nearing the close of the event, the whimsical group cast their paddles onto shore for a photo described as the “spookiest selfie ever”. Filled with smiles, camaraderie is clearly at the forefront of Jolley’s annual events.
“They’re a very accepting community,” said attendee Jill Targos. “They’re very friendly and willing to help you out if you feel a little bit nervous about it.”
Witches on the Water will be hosted again next year, with further details available on their Facebook page.
“This looks like so much fun for anyone and everyone,” Browne said. “I can’t wait to put my outfit together for next year!”
This Post Has One Comment
Well, written, cute and clever