2026 Festival Sponsors
The Best Summer Vibe!
The Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival returns July 11–12, 2026 for a full weekend of racing, community and waterfront fun.
Join athletes, spectators, volunteers and supporters on the Nanaimo waterfront for thrilling dragon boat action, plus live entertainment, food, beer gardens and family-friendly festival energy all weekend long.
One of Nanaimo’s signature summer events, the festival brings people together for a vibrant celebration of sport, teamwork and community in one of the city’s most scenic settings.
Returning to Nanaimo and hosted by the Nanaimo Paddling Centre, the festival is steered by a dedicated Nanaimo-based volunteer committee.
What to Expect
From the first races to the final cheers on shore, the Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival delivers an unforgettable waterfront experience. Alongside exciting competition on the water, festivalgoers can enjoy live music and performances, food vendors, beer gardens and a special Concert in the Park event on Saturday evening.
Whether you are racing, volunteering or cheering from the shoreline, there is something for everyone at this high-energy summer celebration.
Team Registration
Ready to hit the water and make a splash at the best festival on the waterfront? Team registration is now open for crews ready to join the action at the Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival.
The registration form allows teams to choose their division, secure their place in the festival and add any extras they may need for a smooth and successful race weekend, including a team tent, steersperson or drummer.
Registration Fees
Teams that register and pay by 11:59 p.m. PT on April 30, 2025 qualify for the early bird rate of $1,300 plus GST, for a total of $1,365.
After the early bird deadline, the regular registration fee is $1,500 plus GST, for a total of $1,575.
Divisions
Teams may register in one of the following divisions:
Women
Mixed
Optional Add-Ons
Teams can also select optional add-ons to help make race weekend easier and more enjoyable:
Team tent (10' x 10'): $75 including GST
Steersperson: $100
Drummer: $100
Payment Information
Payment must be made by e-transfer to nanaimopaddlingcentre@shaw.ca
Confirmation
A team’s spot is confirmed once payment has been received. Teams hoping to secure the discounted early bird rate must submit both their registration and payment before the deadline.
Click here for our team registration form
Click here for our paddler's waiver form
Volunteers
The Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival depends on an amazing team of volunteers to help bring the weekend to life. From setup and registration to dock support, logistics and festival hospitality, volunteers play a huge role in creating a safe, fun and memorable experience for athletes and guests alike.
Click here for our volunteer registration form
Join Us on the Waterfront
Racing. Music. Food. Community. Waterfront summer vibes. The Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival is set to bring Nanaimo together for one of the most exciting weekends of the season.
Come for the racing, stay for the celebration, and be part of the action on the waterfront.