This sounds pretty cool actually, and will make a good addition to the Free Summertime Activity Guide.

Local favorites, rootsy stringband Blackstrap kick off a new live music concert series on the bank of the Deschutes River, the Pickin’ & Paddlin’ Music Series. Beginning Wednesday, June 24 and continuing the last Wednesday of July and August, Pickin’ & Paddlin’ features live music from 7:00 to 9:00pm, as well as the chance to try kayaks, canoes, paddles and other gear on the Deschutes River. Admission is free, and the whole family is welcome. Donations to the Bend Paddle Trail Alliance are encouraged, and Silver Moon Brewing’s new Epic Trail Ale will be available for adult consumption (proceeds to BPTA).

From 4:00 to 7:00pm, representatives from top paddle sports companies such as Eddyline Kayaks, Esquif Canoes, Swift Paddles, Bending Branches and Aquabound Paddles will will be available for free demos and to answer questions. Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe’s fleet of 50 demo boats will also be available, with staff on hand to help.

The Pickin’ & Paddlin’ Music Series is hosted by Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe, in Bend at 805 SW Industrial Way # 6 (on the Deschutes at the foot of the Colorado Ave. Bridge). Please call 541-317-9407 for details.

DATES, TIMES, BANDS:
Wednesday, June 24
4:00 pm to 7:00pm – free boat and gear demos on the Deschutes River
7:00pm to 9:00pm – Blackstrap

Wednesday, July 29
4:00 pm to 7:00pm – free boat and gear demos on the Deschutes River
7:00pm to 9:00pm – Sweet Harlots

Wednesday, August 26
4:00 pm to 7:00pm – free boat and gear demos on the Deschutes River
7:00pm to 9:00pm – Moon Mountain Ramblers

COST: Admission is free. Kids welcome. No dogs please. Donations to the Bend Paddle Trail Trail Alliance are encouraged.