The Cape Fear River Rendezvous, an annual paddling event that blends adventure, community, and safety, is returning for its second year on June 20, coinciding perfectly with the summer solstice. Organized by William Holman, the state director for the American Canoe Association in North Carolina, this 8-mile guided canoe and kayak trip promises to offer both seasoned paddlers and newcomers a memorable experience on one of the state’s most scenic rivers.
“This is the second annual trip of this version,” Holman shared. “Years back, before COVID, we had a similar event called the Cape Fear Redemption Trip. The first year we were flooded out, so every year after became a ‘redemption.’ We did an overnight paddle from Sanford to Lillington for three years until the pandemic shut things down.”
Now rebranded as the “Rendezvous,” the event has been redesigned to be more accessible for beginners. Holman emphasizes that it’s less about extreme endurance and more about connection—to nature, to others, and to oneself.
“I wanted something more attainable for the regular paddler or a new paddler,” Holman said. “The Cape Fear is one of my favorite places to teach and paddle. It’s got enough tame rapids to give beginners a thrill, but it’s still manageable and safe, especially with trained guides.”
Indeed, safety is a cornerstone of Holman’s approach. As a certified paddling instructor and veteran paddler, he ensures each participant receives a comprehensive safety briefing. “We’re not just putting people on the water and hoping for the best,” he said. “Everyone wears a life jacket, and we go over the entire stretch of river beforehand. If someone doesn’t have a boat, we’ll find one. I’ve got around 20 boats myself, and others in our paddling community always step up to help.”
Holman’s dedication to fostering community is a theme that runs through the Rendezvous. “It’s all about getting people outdoors, getting them active, and making it a safe and fun experience,” he said. Last year’s event drew enthusiastic participants, and word-of-mouth has already generated a buzz for this year’s journey.
“The people who went last year talked about it a lot,” Holman recalled. “We posted pictures on ACA North Carolina’s Facebook page, wrote a recap, and really celebrated what made it special, people laughing, paddling, navigating rapids, and just being together on the river.”
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the event is its inclusive nature. Holman collaborates closely with Team River Runner, a nonprofit that supports veterans through paddle sports.
“I’ve known Cheryl [from Team River Runner] for years. She and the team came out last year and helped. A lot of our participants are veterans, some active duty, some retired and paddling offers them a real sense of peace and purpose.”
Holman, a military veteran himself, believes strongly in the therapeutic benefits of being on the water.
“It’s not just recreation, it’s restoration,” he said. “I teach at Cape Fear River Adventures, and every time I get on that river, I’m reminded why we do this. It’s about joy, healing, and building relationships.”
As the Cape Fear River Rendezvous gains momentum, Holman hopes to see more paddlers each year. “In my mind, I’d love to see a barrage of kayaks going down that 8-mile section, like the tubes you see in Lillington in summer but in kayaks, with safety, camaraderie, and purpose,” he said.
The Cape Fear River Rendezvous is open to the public and welcomes all skill levels. Interested participants can find more information and register through ACA North Carolina’s official channels or follow updates via their Facebook page.
For those in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and beyond, this summer solstice offers a chance not only to paddle but to connect with nature, community, and a growing tradition that’s carving its way into the heart of the region.

(Photo courtesy of William Holman)