The Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival returns July 11–12, 2026 for a weekend of racing, live entertainment, food, beer gardens and family-friendly fun on the waterfront.

Hosted by the Nanaimo Paddling Centre and led by a local volunteer committee, the festival is one of Nanaimo’s signature summer events, bringing together athletes, spectators, volunteers and supporters for a high-energy celebration of sport, teamwork and community.

Team registration is open for Women and Mixed divisions. Early bird pricing is $1,300 plus GST ($1,365 total) for teams that register and pay by 11:59 p.m. PT on April 30, 2025. After that, regular registration is $1,500 plus GST ($1,575 total). Optional add-ons include a team tent for $75 including GST, plus steersperson and drummer options at $100 each. Payment must be made by e-transfer to nanaimopaddlingcentre@shaw.ca, and spots are confirmed once payment is received.

The festival also relies on volunteers to help with setup, registration, dock support, logistics and hospitality.

Come for the racing, stay for the celebration, and be part of one of Nanaimo’s most exciting summer weekends.