Neilson Fest: An event and race built for chaos
Set deep in the forests of Quebec, Neilson Fest, formerly known as the Neilson Race, returns on May 16th, 17th, and 18th, delivering one of the rawest and demanding whitewater race formats in Eastern Canada.
The race itself is short and intense. Teams of two charge down a one-kilometer stretch of Class IV-V whitewater, where unpredictable weather and fluctuating water levels always add an extra element of uncertainty.
At low water, the course becomes brutally technical. Tight lines, sticky holes, and a notoriously unforgiving double drop punish even the smallest mistakes. Precision is mandatory, and many teams fail to make it through clean. Finishing the race while swimming is almost a rite of passage, and the seconds spent on the mandatory booty beer are added directly to the team’s race time.
At high water, the river tells a completely different story. The course turns physical and chaotic, stacked with big waves, fast currents, and powerful features that demand strength and commitment.
Off the water, Neilson Fest stays true to its roots. The event remains human in scale, collaborative, and organized by passionate local paddlers. The atmosphere is central to the experience, with shuttle runs packed with paddlers riding in pickup truck beds, a massive fire pit, and a legendary wild party that goes late into the night.
With its evolving format, Neilson Fest has grown more inclusive and community-driven. The weekend welcomes everyone, from spectators who come to watch the race and join the festivities, to paddlers running the Class III-IV section, all the way to the most competitive kayakers chasing the win.
Who will show up this year to take the crown from 2025 champions Yann Gélinas and Raphaël St-Pierre?
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