As the confluence of State Highways 69 and 92, downtown Belleville’s Main Street sees a lot of traffic. It can be easy to miss that tucked behind rows of gift shops, realtors, restaurants and coffee shops, lays a gathering of waters surrounding Community Park - just waiting for you to explore! The Village of Belleville’s Economic Development Commission has partnered with Sugar River Outfitters to host four Family Paddling Nights in Community Park.

“I always suggest people should go onto a lake once before going out on a river,” notes Kelly Hickman, Owner of Sugar River Outfitters, LLC. Hickman and his daughter will be the guides for families that wish to venture onto Lake Belle View’s friendly waters. “It’s important to take the opportunity to get into a canoe or kayak and learn the essential skills on the water first.”

Nicole Brauer, Chair of the Village of Belleville Economic Development Commission, wants to see more activities for families to enjoy in Belleville.

“Our beautiful village has so much to offer; we hope this is the start of many future family events!” said Brauer.

The Economic Development Commission encourages both participants and spectators to stroll downtown before or after the event. For those unfamiliar with the area, there is a footbridge from Community Park to downtown. It crosses over the Sugar River, and leads visitors to shops, restaurants and taverns.

Families are encouraged to consider local dining options from throughout Belleville. Many restaurants will provide delivery to Community Park if arrangements are made in advance – and of course, dine-in and carry-out is also available. As you plan your excursion, pick your favorite place and ask what options they currently offer.

All event participants should gather on the shore of Lake Belle View, just across from the parking lot inside Community Park. (Bross Circle, Belleville, WI 53508.)

The paddling events will take place from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., on four Wednesday evenings this summer: June 9th, June 16th, July 7th and July 21st. All skill levels are welcome at any of the dates, however June 9th and July 7th will focus on beginning instruction, while June 16th and July 21st will be a general supervised paddling experience.

Thanks to a reduced cost offered to the community by Sugar River Outfitters, combined with financial support from the Village of Belleville Economic Development Commission, tickets are just $10.00 per adult and children under 12 years of age are free with a participating adult. (Additional Eventbrite order fees do apply).

Links to the order information may be found on the Village of Belleville Economic Development Recreation Page, https://www.developbelleville.com/residents/recreation_information.php. Or, you may also visit http://www.Eventbrite.com and search “Family Paddling Nights in Community Park.”

Tickets include kayaks or canoes and all other needed paddling and safety equipment. Participants should expect to get wet no matter what the conditions and are also encouraged to dress for the weather; paddling happens rain or shine! Sugar River Outfitters cancellation policy may be found on their “What to Expect” page of their Website at https://sugarriveroutfitterswi.com/.

For more information, including assistance with online ordering for those without access, you may contact Becky, Village of Belleville Economic Development & Marketing Specialist for assistance, at (608) 424-3342 or bedc@villageofbelleville.com.