Picture This: Shiverfest on the Lackawanna River

A fresh snowfall turned the Lackawanna River into a winter wonderland as paddlers gathered in Scranton for this year’s Shiverfest. The event is hosted annually by the Lackawanna River Conservation Association. Shiverfest invites kayakers and canoeists to experience the river during its coldest and most visually striking season.

The day began at Parker Street Landing, where participants checked in and prepared their boats. Snow fell steadily as gear was unloaded and final adjustments were made. The scene felt cinematic, with flakes drifting through the air along the riverbank. Paddlers then launched into a roughly 2.7-mile, non-competitive paddle. The route followed the Lackawanna River through the city before finishing at Sweeney’s Beach. Snow-covered trees and riverbanks created a quiet contrast to the surrounding urban landscape.

On the water, creativity and personality were easy to spot. Some paddlers focused on warmth, layering winter gear from head to toe. Others leaned fully into Shiverfest’s playful spirit by wearing costumes. These outfits added color and humor to the snowy conditions. The shared challenge of winter paddling created a strong sense of camaraderie. Cold temperatures became part of the experience rather than an obstacle.

Safety and preparation remained central throughout the event. Paddlers arrived with their own boats and required personal flotation devices. Many also chose wetsuits for added comfort in winter conditions. Check-ins at both the launch and finish helped organizers track participants. This ensured everyone made it off the river safely.

Warming Up After the Paddle

The celebration continued off the water at Groove Brewing. The Fireside Martini Grill served food while Clamshell provided live music. Prize giveaways added extra excitement to the afternoon. As paddlers warmed up, conversations and stories from the river filled the space.

Shiverfest once again celebrated winter on the Lackawanna River as a season for adventure, connection, and shared experiences. Check out the highlights below and keep an eye on the Lackawanna River Conservation Association for future events on the river.