The 2026 paddle honouring Algonquin Chief Pierre-Louis Constant Pinesi begins on July 5 at noon at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau and concludes July 10 on the Kahnawà:ke reserve (south of Montreal). In its third year, ONEC’s Paddling Director, Karen Butterfield, will be among the 34 paddlers travelling 180 km in three traditional 34-foot Montreal canoes.

As part of the New Horizons for Seniors Big Canoe program, ONEC is offering free spots for those aged 55+ to participate in a local outing recognizing and supporting this event.

• Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM (including 1.5–2 hours on the water)

• Includes: Post-paddle social with refreshments at the ONEC waterfront room

• Registration: Email paddling@onec.ca (first come, first served; confirmation by return email)

Other ways to participate:

• Attend the launch at the Museum of History on July 5 at noon

• Watch from the boathouse or along the river as the canoes travel between the Museum, the falls, and the Quebec and Kettle Island shores