One of Victoria's Most Spectacular Summer Festivals

This family-friendly area has something fun for everyone. Grab a bite to eat from a selection of delicious local food vendors and join us in the Cultural/ Family Activities Tent for some cultural crafts and entertainment.

The spirits of the dragon boats sleep in the mountains until they are awoken by Taoist priests during the Eye Dotting Ceremony.
The Awakening of the Dragon Ceremony is conducted to bless the area of competition, and to awaken the dragons on the boats so they can race; charging the boats and their crews with the Spirit of the Dragon and the Goddess of the Sea. 

Help support the BC Cancer Foundation as they work towards a future free of cancer. Purchase a paper lantern for $2 and write a message of hope, love, or remembrance on its tag. Hang your lantern at the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival and be a part of a truly moving show of support and community. All net proceeds from lantern sales (1$ per sale) support the BC Cancer Foundation.

Is there any better way to spend a hot summer afternoon? Check out some awesome music on the Main Stage while relaxing in our huge beer garden. You might even catch some crazy paddlers dancing up a storm on stage…

Check out our free, all-ages live entertainment from about 1pm on the Festival Main Stage. We feature some awesome visiting and local bands, creating the right atmosphere for you, your family and friends to dance the night away!

A great lineup of free cultural performances has been scheduled this year. Bring the family down to the Festival Main Stage between 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday to take in the sights and sounds as local community groups share their vibrant cultural traditions

Check out the exciting dragon boat races right in Victoria’s downtown Inner Harbour when they return in 2022! Teams race 470m from Laurel Point towards the Empress Hotel, in an intense display of strength and teamwork. Watch the final stretch from our grandstands for the best view in the harbour.

Need medical attention? St. John’s Ambulance will be on-site to attend to minor injuries. Find their truck near the Information Booth.

Lose your phone? Your wallet? Your paddle? Lost and found items can be claimed from the Information Booth. If your item is missing after the close of the Festival, contact our office.

Lost child or parent? Use the Information Booth as your central meeting point. Volunteers will help reunite lost children and parents. Tell your child to meet you at the Information Booth if you are separated while at the Festival.