Jamie Barnes' film « A canoe Perspective » sums up the values of the Open Canoe Festival perfectly. It will open the Festival on Friday, April 18, 9:30 p.m. under the Tipi.


Finding purpose, identity and perspective through canoe expeditions… In May 2022, British adventure filmmaker Jamie Barnes travelled to Scotland with Canadian long-distance canoe paddler Martin Trahan. They aimed to paddle a small but formidable route, but a series of tribulations made their expedition even more challenging. This film documents their journey whilst exploring the reasons why canoeing is more than just a form of recreation but a way of finding purpose, identity, and perspective in an ever-changing world.

« Canoeing trips are all about the basics. Stripping away the things you don’t need and taking only the essentials. Paddling. Portaging. Camping. Fighting headwinds and enduring cold, wet weather. Marveling at the landscape while being challenged by the terrain. All are part of what makes these trips special and beckon us to go back for more.

Our modern lives can sometimes make us too methodical, and analytical. But the flow of nature doesn’t work like that; the wind and the water are ever-changing and do not conform to the plans we make. Canoeing teaches you to let go and be more present in the moment. »
Jamie Barnes

A film not to be missed. Opening of the Open Canoe Festival, Friday, April 18, 2025, 9:30pm, under the big tepee.