Festival Schedule

Opening Ceremony

2026

More information soon

Join us at 6:00 PM to kick off the festival! We’ll start with a welcome from our Rotary Festival Chairperson, followed by O’Canada. Hear from the Rotary District Governor and various dignitaries, including our title sponsor, ATB, and local government officials. We will share the fascinating inception story of the Dragon Boat Race. The ceremony culminates with the symbolic Waking of the Lion and a Blessing of the Boats,  before a special Dignitary Paddle officially launches the races!  

Rose Ceremony

2026

More information soon

The Rose Ceremony has been a special part of the Dragon Boat Festival. Women who are cancer survivors walk to the peninsula on Henderson Lake (by the concession near the Kids Zone and Stage) after the C Cup race. As they walk to the peninsula they are given a rose. The President of Abreast of ‘Bridge will say a few words. “The Rose” is sung and rose petals are tossed into the Lake. It is a very touching ceremony. The Rose song will be performed by TBA.

Closing Ceremony

2026

More information soon

Celebrate with us after the races conclude for the Closing Ceremony! We’ll begin with heartfelt thank-yous from Rotary representatives, and our title sponsor, ATB. The main event is the Awards presentation, recognizing top teams in various categories, including Women’s, Mixed, and Youth Challenges, along with special race recognitions. The festival officially concludes with the symbolic Putting the Lion to Sleep ceremony.

*Time dependent on races finishing