Black Swamp Conservancy reports the return of Paddle & Groove, the region’s one-of-a-kind floating concert series that combines live music, community spirit and river adventure. Back for its second season, this immersive event invites participants to kayak alongside a pontoon boat carrying live bands as they perform while cruising down the Maumee River.
Presented by the KeyBank National Association Trustee for the Walter E. Terhune Memorial Fund, Paddle & Groove offers a unique opportunity to experience the Maumee River’s natural beauty while enjoying live music. Each event takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, July 2, July 23, August 13 and August 27.
Ticket options include $15 to bring your own boat, $45 for kayak rental and $90 for tandem kayak rental. Children under 18 must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult.
Beyond the music, Paddle & Groove is a celebration of the Maumee River and the conservation efforts that keep it thriving. Each paddle stroke and musical note echoes the conservancy’s mission to protect natural areas and family farms for future generations. Participants will paddle through areas supported by restored prairies, wetlands and streams, highlighting the importance of land conservation in maintaining healthy waterways and communities.
Meet the Artists
This season’s lineup features an array of talented musicians: •Nick Dittmeier and the Sawdusters: a progressive roots rock trio from southern Indiana, known for their prolific touring and albums like “Midwest Heart/Southern Blues.”
•Whitney Mongé: a Pacific northwest singer-songwriter whose Americana soul blends blues, rock and indie folk, delivering smoky vocals and poignant lyrics.
•Joe’s Truck Stop: from the Ohio River Valley, this group offers a blend of bluegrass, honky-tonk and western swing, rooted in country blues traditions.
•Soultru: a Midwest soul crooner from the Quad Cities, drawing inspiration from gospel roots and artists like John Legend, crafting music with emotional depth.
Tickets are required for each concert and can be purchased through the Black Swamp Conservancy’s website. For more details, including ticket purchases and event updates, visit blackswamp. org/paddle-and-groove/.
