Franklin celebrates first day of 2019 with kayaking on Winnipesaukee River

While many cities and towns celebrate First Night to ring in the new year, in Franklin, people celebrated the beginning of 2019 by hitting the water of the Winnipesaukee River, despite the cold temperatures.

Overnight rains had the river running as high as people could remember for this time of year.

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For seasoned kayakers, they were great conditions.

“It’s pumping,” Alan Sojka said. “This is a real juicy one today.”

Sojka was watching his son, John, run the rapids, but wasn't planning on joining him.

“I brought my boat, but I’ll do the upper, not the lower,” he said. “Way too big for me."

John Sojka’s mother was also watching but wasn't worried.

“I’m so used to it,” Elaine Sojka said. “He does the big stuff and loves it. I don't worry. He's got the talent; he can handle it.”

John Sojka said the river was at the best level he's ever run it at, despite a few mishaps.

“I flipped a few times but rolled up pretty quick,” he said. “I haven't been in my boat for a few months, but it was awesome, a great way to get back into it.”

John Sojka said you have to be prepared to kayak in rushing rapids like he saw Tuesday.

“You have to really be watching, reading the river ahead of where you're going, and you have to be careful because there is a dam right there,” he said.

Michael Lewis said that after seeing posts about the event for years, he had to give it a try.

“This is just gorgeous. The weather is beautiful today,” he said. “The sun is starting to come out. I just love getting out. You have to be outside.”

Even for those who don't want to get wet, there is something to do.

“It's really to welcome anybody in the community to come and have fun,” said Mackenzie Rodgers, of the Franklin Youth Group.

The event draws people from all over the northeast, and the hope is they'll come back in different times of the year to enjoy other outdoor activities.

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