Schuylkill River Greenways, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people and communities to the Schuylkill River, introduces the Philly Phlotilla, a paddling event that will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with a unique Philadelphia twist.  The event will highlight the specific and significant role that the Schuylkill and Delaware rivers played in the American Revolution.    

The Philly Phlotilla will be held July 11th, welcoming over 100 kayakers decked out in patriotic colors and even costumes to the river. Led by experienced river guides, the flotilla will cover eight miles of the Schuylkill River, paddling from the Walnut Street Dock to Fort Mifflin on the Delaware, the “Fort that Saved America,” where the celebration will continue. Food, beverages, and ice cream, along with tours and a cannon firing, await the paddlers.  The celebration at the fort is also open to non-paddlers who would like to join the festivities.      

Residents and visitors to Philadelphia will also have the opportunity to be part of the Phlotilla, viewing the parade of colorful kayaks from the Schuylkill River Trail in the city and the bridges that cross the river as the paddlers make their way to Fort Mifflin. 

“Schuylkill River Greenways is thrilled to work with our partners on the tidal section of the river to present this celebration of the city’s role in our nation’s history,” said SRG executive director, Elaine Schaefer.  “The Schuylkill River is incredibly important to that story and the stories that continue to unfold in our communities today.”  

Collaborators for the Phlotilla event include the National Park Service, Fort Mifflin on the Delaware, Schuylkill Banks (SRDC), Bartram’s Garden, Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, the PA Department of Conservation and National Resources, Riverways, and SV First Light/Phila Sail. The event is made possible through generous funding from The Bellwether District, Highmark Blue Shield, Brandywine Realty Trust, and Duane Morris, LLP, and Constellation.   

Registration for the event opens Thursday, May 7th and organizers are anticipating high demand.  “If you want to be part of the Phlotilla, don’t wait.” Schaefer advised. “There is so much excitement surrounding Philadelphia’ s role in the America 250 celebration and this is one event you won’t want to miss.”

More information and registration information for the Philly Phlotilla can be found here:  https://support.schuylkillriver.org/phillyphlotilla