Water Events
"Give it a Try!"
Log Rolling
Be part of something totally and wildly fun at the 20th Annual Pugwash Harbourfest — it’s
Key Log Rolling, and it’s making a splash at Dinghy Beach!
Step onto the floating log and see how long you can stay upright in this fast-paced, laugh-out-loud challenge.
It’s all about balance, quick feet, and a little fearless fun.
Whether you’re in it to win or just want to see your friends take a tumble,
you won’t want to miss the action.
Sinkers Conference
Cardboard Boat Races
Build it. Float it. Race it. (Or sink trying!)
Grab your cardboard and your crew — it’s time to create your own boat and put it through the ultimate challenge!
Race around the course at Dinghy Beach for a chance to win awesome prizes and eternal (and possibly soggy) glory.
Whether your boat glides like a dream or dissolves in seconds, it’s all part of the fun.
From hilarious designs to surprisingly seaworthy builds, the Sinkers Conference is a boatload of laughs for racers and spectators alike.
Be sure to check the construction rules below to make sure your boat is ready for the big splash in the Cardboard Boat Race!
Prize Categories
- Fastest Boat
- Judge’s Choice
- People’s Choice
- Titanic Award
- And whatever other categories the judges randomly think up on the day.
Stand Up Paddle Board
Obstacle Course
Good Vibes, Beach Tunes, Paddle Boards, Puppies & Body Paint — it’s all happening at Dinghy Beach!
Bring your paddle board and your pup if you can, for the lively and fun SUP Event. Whether you’re paddling with your dog, showing off your beachy body paint, or just enjoying the music and sunshine, this easygoing event is all about community and summer fun.
Race Categories
- Paddle with Your Pet – Kick things off with your favorite four-legged friend
- Paddle with Body Paint – Creative expression meets beach spirit
- Speed Heat Finale – A friendly race across calm water
Bring your own board and life jacket, or borrow from us while supplies last.
Rules for Participation
- Lifejackets are mandatory.
- Stay clear of the channel.
- Respect other competitors.
- Maintain a safe distance from other paddlers.
- Always communicate if changing position.
- Must complete the heat before heading back to shore.
- Registration & Waiver must be completed to participate.
The Lobster Crate Run
Think you can make it across without taking a swim? Competitors will race across a floating course made entirely of connected lobster crates.
Prizes in Adult Category are $100, $50 and $25 Gift Certificates provided by Chase’s Lobster Ltd.
Children’s Category
Kids ages 6 and up are welcome to participate with a signed parental permission form. Children’s prizes will be announced soon.
The crates will be securely roped together and float on the water, creating an exciting challenge that tests your balance, speed, and determination!
The challenge sounds simple, but once those crates begin to shift beneath your feet, staying upright becomes part of the fun.
Make it from one end to the other without falling in, and you could walk away with bragging rights—and a prize!
Note:
PFD’s are required and can be provided by Harbourfest. Non-slip footwear is recommended.
Lobster Boat Races
- Real Working Vessels: Local captains race their actual commercial lobster boats.
- Roaring Engines: High-horsepower diesel engines face off in multiple speed classes.
- Waterfront Views: Spectators gather along Eaton Park and Dinghy Beach to watch.