Nanaimo Dragon boat Festival

Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival 2025 paddles in for its 22nd anniversary with family-friendly fun, fierce 500 m races, and community spirit on the waterfront. Whether you’re racing in the mixed, women’s, or Survivor Challenge divisions, you’re guaranteed four heats (weather permitting) plus plenty of onshore beats and local eats to keep you fueled.

Race Format & Challenges

• Mixed & Women’s Divisions: Four guaranteed 500 m races per crew; advancement based on placement and time.
• Breast Cancer Survivor’s Challenge: Two special races honoring survivors, with awards for top finishers.
• Guts & Glory Challenges: Staggered starts (15 s intervals), enforced overlap rules, and time‐credit penalties keeping it fair and fierce.

Schedule For Nanaimo Dragon boat Festival

Saturday, July 12

• 8:00 AM: Team check-in & safety briefing
• 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Mixed & women’s heats
• 4:00 PM: Survivor’s Challenge races

Sunday, July 13

• 8:30 AM: Guts & Glory Challenge starts
• 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Finals and trophy presentations
• 3:00 PM: Closing ceremonies

Registration & Policies

• Team Entry Fee: C$1,800 (early-bird)
• Withdrawal Deadline: June 21, 2025 (25% administrative fee applies; no refunds after deadline)
• Register: Visit the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club site for full details and online sign-up.

Highlights

• Live DJ & Local Food Trucks: Keep your energy high between heats.
• Family Zone: Kids’ paddle-demo area and face-painting by the park.
• Vendor Village: Grab eco-friendly gear – think reusable water bottles and quick-dry performance wear.

Visitor Info

• Parking: Free lots at Maffeo Sutton Park; arrive early on Sunday.
• Spectator Viewing: Docksides and grassy terraces offer prime vantage points.
• Accessibility: Waterfront pathways and viewing areas are wheelchair-accessible.
• Contact: race@nanaimodragonboat.ca for any questions.

For complete festival details, course maps, and volunteer opportunities, paddle over to the official site: Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival