FreshCo Richmond Dragon Boat Festival

FreshCo Richmond Dragon Boat Festival returns to Steveston Village for a sun-drenched day of paddling prowess and community celebration on the shores of the Fraser River. Sixty-nine teams – over 2,000 paddlers in total – will vie for glory in 500 m sprint heats every 11 minutes, giving fans a front-row seat to the action.

Beyond the races, expect live music, cultural demonstrations from local artists, and a lively marketplace where food trucks and artisan vendors showcase Richmond’s best flavors and crafts.

Race Format & Schedule For Richmond Dragon Boat Festival

The 2025 Festival focuses on 500 m races for mixed and women’s divisions, with preliminary heats beginning at 8:30 AM. Every 11 minutes, boats launch off the start line, navigating the current-filled Fraser. Semifinals kick off late morning, building to finals in the early afternoon. Tight margins and split-second sprints mean you’ll want to stake out a prime viewing spot along the racecourse – and maybe pack a pair of binoculars if you’re aiming to catch every stroke.

Festival Highlights

• Live Music & Cultural Performances: DJ sets and local bands will keep the energy high between races, while lion dancers, Sichuan face-changing troupes, and other cultural groups provide vibrant interludes.
• Marketplace & Food Trucks: Browse local artisans offering crafts, paddling gear, and community group booths. When hunger hits, line up for Richmond’s top food trucks – everything from gourmet tacos to locally brewed craft sodas.
• Children’s Zone & Family Activities: Face painting, interactive games, and short “paddle sampler” sessions on sheltered water make this a family-friendly outing – your little deckhands will have as much fun as the seasoned paddlers.
• Awards & Closing Ceremony: Around 5:30 PM, medal presentations for the Grand Finals winners wrap up the racing, followed by a brief ceremony that honors volunteers and highlights next year’s festival plans.

Registration & Entry

• Race Registration: Teams must register online by mid-July to secure a lane. Registration fees vary by division; details and downloadable (race maps, safety protocols, team rules) are available on the Racer Info page.
• Volunteer Opportunities: From boathouse setup to on-shore safety support, volunteers get VIP festival swag and a front-row view of the races. Sign up through the “Volunteer Opportunities” link on the festival website.

Visitor Tips For FreshCo Richmond Dragon Boat Festival

Arrival & Parking:

Gates open at 6:00 AM for race-day setup. If you’re arriving later, free street parking near Steveston Community Park is available, and a shuttle runs between Britannia Heritage Shipyard and Imperial Landing. Pro tip: arrive before 9:00 AM to claim a shaded spot along the docks.

Stay Hydrated & Sun-Smart:

Refillable water stations are scattered throughout Imperial Landing – bring your own bottle to reduce waste. A brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen will go a long way once the Fraser breeze dies down.

Find Your Viewing Niche:

he best vantage points are near the start line (Action Alley) and the finish chute (North Dock). Both areas fill fast, so scope them out early – and consider a lightweight folding chair for comfort.

Cultural Etiquette:

Between heats, take a moment to watch lion dance troupes or Sichuan face-changers up close. Tipping performers or vendors is appreciated but not required; a friendly “thank you” in Cantonese (“多謝” [dōjeh]) goes a long way.

Accessibility & Amenities

• Accessible Viewing: The festival site includes ramped walkways and designated viewing platforms for wheelchair users. Accessible washrooms are located near the main pier.
• Family-Friendly Facilities: Baby-change stations and stroller-friendly pathways make Imperial Landing a breeze for parents.
• Pet Policy: Leashed dogs are welcome on designated grassy areas – but please leave them off the docks during race heats.

Official Website & More Info For Dragon Boat Festival

For the complete 2025 festival site map, detailed race schedules, team roster, and real-time updates, chart your course to stevestondragonboatfestival.ca.