If you have ever strolled through Lake Anne Plaza in late October and heard cackles floating across the water, you have discovered one of Reston’s quirkiest and most joyful traditions. The SUP Witches Coven Parade gathers costumed paddlers on Lake Anne for a playful Halloween-season cruise. It is part flash-mob, part parade, and entirely Reston. Whether you want to join the coven on a board or cheer from the plaza, this guide walks you through dates and times, launch options, parking, safety basics, what to bring, and how to make a full afternoon of it with food and drinks right on the plaza.
What Is the SUP Witches Coven Parade?
Picture dozens of witches and a few warlocks trading broomsticks for stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. The group meets on Lake Anne, forms up near the launch area, and sets out for a spirited paddle in full costume. You will see pointy hats, capes, striped socks, and the occasional inflatable cauldron. The energy is warm and welcoming. Families line the water’s edge to wave and snap photos. After the paddle, the crowd usually gathers back at Lake Anne Plaza for refreshments and more Halloween fun.
When It Happens and How the Day Flows
The coven traditionally departs in the early afternoon. Organizers often set a firm departure time so paddlers can assemble and move onto the water as a group. Plan to arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before the paddle begins. That gives you time to park, walk your board or paddle from the boat ramp, and make any costume adjustments before you hit the water. Spectators can arrive a bit later, but it pays to come early for parking and a good spot by the waterfront.
After the paddle wraps, the group heads back toward the plaza. Many participants celebrate at local spots, including the beloved taproom at the Lake Anne Brew House. If you are in costume, keep an eye on their seasonal specials and announcements. It is a short walk from the water’s edge and a natural place to meet friends, warm up, and share photos.
Where to Launch: Two Popular Options
To get on the water, paddlers typically use one of two routes. Choose the one that fits your gear, comfort level, and timing.
1) Lakeside Cluster Dock
The group departure is commonly staged from the Lakeside Cluster dock. This dock is large and easy to spot. If you already have your board with you and want to assemble with the main group, this is the most direct option. Limited nearby street parking means you will likely park along Orchard Lane, then carry or wheel your board to the dock.
2) Official Lake Anne Boat Ramp on Inlet Court
The official public access point for Lake Anne is the Lake Anne Boat Ramp on Inlet Court, just off Wiehle Avenue. You can park on Inlet Court, roll your board down the paved path, and launch from there. From the ramp it is usually a 10 to 15 minute paddle to reach the Lakeside Cluster dock, which makes it a smooth warm-up before the parade. This route is handy if the area around the cluster dock is busy or if you prefer an easier approach path for wheels or a cart. The ramp is not located at the plaza, so give yourself a little extra time to paddle over. The Reston Association maintains guidance about lake access and launches, and you can review their current Boat Guide to understand lake access points and policies.
Parking Tips That Make the Day Easier
Parking can fill quickly on event days. Here is a practical approach that keeps you close to the action without stress.
For the Lakeside Cluster Dock: Plan to park on Orchard Lane. Be respectful of residents and posted signs. If you are carrying a hard board, consider a shoulder strap, wheels, or a two-person carry.
For the Inlet Court Boat Ramp: Park on Inlet Court where permitted, right by the paved path to the ramp. The path is a short walk to the lake and is friendly to carts.
For Spectators at the Plaza: Lake Anne Plaza has several lots and street options around the Village Center. Arrive early, then head to the waterfront for a view of the returning coven. The Lake Anne Plaza business directory can help you plan your pre- or post-paddle coffee, lunch, or browsing.
What To Bring if You Plan To Paddle
Costumes are the star of the day, although there is a bit of strategy involved if you are going on the water.
Board, Paddle, and Leash: Choose a stable board if your costume is elaborate. A simple all-around SUP with decent width will keep your balance reliable. A coiled leash helps keep clutter down at your feet.
PFD: Bring a properly fitting life jacket or belt-pack PFD. Safety comes first, especially with costumes that might catch the wind.
Appropriate Footwear: Thin neoprene booties or water shoes keep you warm if the water is chilly.
Warm Layers: A base layer under your costume makes the paddle more comfortable, particularly on breezy afternoons.
Small Dry Bag: Stash your phone, keys, and a lightweight jacket.
Waterproof Costume Planning: Keep trailing fabric to a minimum and secure accessories so they do not become lake litter. A little Velcro and a few safety pins go a long way.
Costume Ideas That Work Well on the Water
Creativity shines at this parade. Here are ideas that look great and still paddle efficiently.
Classic Witch or Warlock: Pointed hat secured with a discreet chin strap. Shorter cape to avoid drag.
Cat Familiar: Black ears, whisker face paint, and a tail clipped safely to your belt so it does not drag in the water.
Elemental Witch: Blue or green palette for water witches, fiery accents for a more dramatic look.
Group Theme: Coordinate hat colors or add identical striped socks for a squad look that photographs beautifully from shore.
Pro tip: If your hat loves the wind more than your head does, add a narrow elastic band under your hairline. It will not show in photos and saves you from chasing a hat across the lake.
Safety and Courtesy on the Lake
Reston’s lakes are well loved, and the coven keeps things fun and neighborly.
Right of Way and Spacing: Give other paddlers room. Decorative brooms, staffs, and capes can widen your footprint on the board.
No Littering: Secure decorations, zip ties, and ribbon tails. If something falls off, retrieve it before it sinks.
Be Weather Aware: Fall afternoons can turn breezy. If winds pick up, kneel for extra stability or shorten your paddle stroke.
Follow Lake Rules: Review current lake access rules and launch points in the Reston Association’s Boat Guide. Some access points are for members or permit holders, and the guide explains how it works.
Best Places To Watch the Parade
Spectators have great vantage points around the Lake Anne waterfront. The plaza offers a natural amphitheater with steps and railings that frame the water. If you like photos with architectural flair, shoot toward the façades of the Village Center for color and depth. Families often cluster by the sculpture and the open plaza steps. With kids, bring a small blanket and set up on the brick so little ones can sit and still see the water.
After the coven returns, you can keep the camera rolling for the group dock photo if organizers plan one that year. From there, everyone usually drifts toward food and drinks. The atmosphere is lively and friendly, with plenty of costumes to admire up close.
Make a Day of It at Lake Anne Plaza
Lake Anne is the historic heart of Reston and a fantastic place to spend an afternoon. You can explore the plaza’s mid-century architecture and the surrounding public art, then stop into independent spots for coffee, snacks, or a meal. For a taste of the local craft scene, settle in at the Lake Anne Brew House for small-batch beers brewed onsite. If you are new to Lake Anne and want a quick primer, Fairfax County’s visitor guide has a nice overview of Lake Anne Plaza, including its historic status and vibe.
Practical Timeline for Paddlers
If you plan to join the coven, this simple schedule keeps your day smooth.
Two days before: Check your board pressure, fin hardware, and paddle clamp. Lay out your costume and test it on land while standing on your board.
Morning of the event: Re-check weather and water temperature. Pack a dry bag with layers, snacks, and water.
Arrival: Park at Orchard Lane for the Lakeside Cluster dock or at Inlet Court for the official boat ramp. Give yourself at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
On-water warm-up: If you launch from Inlet Court, allow 10 to 15 minutes to paddle to the cluster dock and join the group.
Group start: Listen for a quick huddle or whistle to begin. Keep it slow and steady at the start while everyone spreads out.
Return: Follow the group back toward the plaza, then head to the Lake Anne Brew House. Gather for photos if the organizers plan a group shot.
Post-paddle: Celebrate at the plaza. If you are in costume, check whether local spots are running any specials for the occasion.
Accessibility and Family Tips
Watching with strollers: The plaza walkways are stroller-friendly, although the brick can be bumpy. Arrive early for a spot near the water.
Kids who want to paddle: Teens with SUP experience can join if an adult is present and comfortable supervising from a close distance. Beginner paddlers might prefer to spectate this year and practice on a quieter day.
Dogs: Some dogs love SUP. If your pup comes along, use a canine PFD and keep the costume minimal. For spectators with dogs, bring water and be mindful of paw traffic on the plaza.
Mobility considerations: If carrying a board from Orchard Lane feels tough, use the Inlet Court boat ramp. The paved path is short, and a wheeled SUP cart makes it much easier.
Photo Tips for the Best Shots
You will want to capture both the parade energy and the Reston setting. Here are simple tactics for great photos.
Golden light: If the sun is out, the early afternoon can still give you softer light near the water.
Angles: Shoot low from the steps to frame paddlers against the water and plaza architecture.
Details: Zoom in on hat bands, striped socks, and paddle decorations. The costume details tell the story.
Action: Catch a group turn or a synchronized cackle. Burst mode helps you snag the right expression.
Post-paddle portraits: Ask paddlers for a quick photo by the dock. Most are happy to show off their costumes.
If You Are New to Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Reston’s lakes are calm and forgiving in fall, but the wind can still test your balance. New paddlers often find success by kneeling when gusts pick up, keeping a soft bend in the knees, and planting the paddle blade fully in the water before pulling. Maintain a relaxed grip on the paddle shaft. Small adjustments keep you steady.
If this is your first time on Lake Anne, give yourself a little warm-up near shore. Practice a few forward strokes and one or two smooth turns before the group sets off. You will be more confident and able to enjoy the scenery and costumes.
Why the SUP Witches Parade Feels So “Reston”
The event showcases what makes Reston special. Neighbors gather around a shared lake. Costumes invite play. Local businesses open their doors to a lively crowd. Visitors see the village-center vision of Reston come to life. Everyone shares the space, celebrates safely, and then lingers over a pint or a pastry as the sun dips behind the mid-century silhouettes of the plaza. It is small-town charm inside a modern planned community.
A Quick Checklist
Launch site chosen and parking plan set
Board, paddle, leash, PFD
Costume secured and tested for wind
Dry bag with water, snack, phone, light layer
Camera or phone charged
Plan to celebrate at Lake Anne Brew House or another plaza favorite
Nearby Places to Explore
Make the most of your visit by arriving early or lingering after the paddle. Stroll the artful waterfront, peek at seasonal markets when they are running, and soak in the historic character of the village center. If you want an easy walk, the Lake Anne Trail offers a lakeside loop with neighborhood views. It is a pleasant way to round out the day.
Final Word from a Local
I share hyper-local events because they tell the story of why Reston and Herndon are such a joy to call home. The SUP Witches Coven Parade is pure community. If you join on the water, paddle safely and bring your best cackle. If you spectate, cheer loudly and be ready for the photo moment on the dock. Either way, you will leave smiling.
Useful Links
Review lake access and current rules in the Reston Association Boat Guide.
Learn more about Lake Anne Plaza.
Enjoy small-batch beer at Lake Anne Brew House.
Explore a simple lakeside loop on the Lake Anne Trail.
