TATLOWFEST 2026

Tatlowfest 2026 is in the works!! June 19-21st. 

Stay tuned for more information!

• Friday Afternoon / Evening - BBQ / Live DJ's / Free Surf on the Wave. People can show up and get their tent site and have a chill evening before the weekend's activities really start

• Saturday Morning: A variety of activities, including yoga in the field, and introduction to SUP clinics (gear provided for anyone who wants to get their feet wet and experience playing in moving water)

• Saturday Noon: opening ceremonies, safety meeting and land acknowledgement

• Saturday Afternoon: competitions, including rescue olympics, t rescue rodeo, boater / sup cross, and finishing off with a surf competition

• Saturday Evening: awards ceremony, after party, live band, live dj's etc.

• Sunday: Organized river trip. Options include Bulkley Canyon, Suskwa, or another section of the Bulkley depending on the river level (options here: https://www.paddlebv.com/rivers) 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will there be food this year?

   • Yes! Friday night, BBQ's will be available, bring your own grill-ables. We will be providing free cold breakfast (granola, oat milk, coffee, etc) on Saturday morning. There will also be food for sale Saturday evening with local food truck PoutineShack Co. As well as a snack concession.

2.  Can I bring my own alcohol?

   • No. Because SWC has registered a liquor license for the beer gardens Friday and Saturday no outside alcohol is allowed on site.

3. What if I just want to join the river runs but don't want to join the party at Tatlow?

   • Members of the SWC are welcome to join for the river runs without paying the Tatlowfest registration fee. 

4. What happens if I don't get a camp site?

   • We have space for ~ 20 campsites. We are hoping that this will be enough space for everyone who needs one.

5. Can I bring my kids / family / friends to Tatlowfest even if they aren't paddlers?

   • Yes!!! The registration for non-paddlers for the weekend is just $20. This can be paid at registration or you can sign up early here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatlowfest-2025-tickets-1332706995499 

   • Kids under 12  years of age are free

6.  Can I bring my pets? 

   • No. Although SWC loves river dogs/cats/birds/lizards, no pets are allowed on Tatlow property including in vehicles. Please leave your furred, feathered or scaled friends at home.

7.  Do I have to register in advance?

   • No. It is nice to have a general idea of numbers for this event, you can register in advance at the link below. BUT if you don't get around to it, no worries, you will be able to register on site during the festival

 https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatlowfest-2025-tickets-1332706995499  

8. What other rivers exist around Smithers?

   • Lots of options, including: Telkwa, Bulkley Canyon, Porphryr Section of the Bulkley, the Suskwa and East Boulder. These range in difficulty and with water level, but generally range from grade 2/3, to grade 3/4. See here for more information.

Paddles up and a huge THANK YOU to the sponsors of Tatlowfest 2025!!