6 Reasons to Get Excited About the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival

This is the 23rd year that beautifully-emblazoned boats have gathered in the Inner Harbour to compete in the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival.
 
Taking place from August 18 to 20, this is one of Victoria’s most exciting summer events – and the only dragon boat festival in the whole of Canada to take place in a working harbour. Here are six reasons to get excited…
 
1. The Incredible Setting
The races take place right in the heart of Victoria’s downtown Inner Harbour. Watch the teams race 470 metres from Lauren Point towards the iconic Empress Hotel: it’s a sight to behold!
 
2. The Fascinating History
The origins of dragon boat racing go back to an attempt to save a well-respected poet, Qu Yuan, from drowning. The act of racing to search for his body in boats slowly transformed into the cultural tradition of dragon boat racing, which is held on the anniversary of the poet’s death every year.
 
3. The Intriguing Eye-Dotting Ceremony
The eye-dotting ceremony at the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival takes place on Friday 18 at 1pm. The ceremony sees Taoist priests awaken the sleeping spirits of the dragon and bless the competitors and their boats.
 
4. The Sounds of the Beer Garden
Check out the bands on the main stage and relax with a beer in the Beer Garden. You might even catch some crazy paddlers dancing up a storm on stage. It’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon.
 
5. The Cuisine in the Forbidden City Food Court
The Forbidden City Food Court is home to a wide selection of cuisines from across the world. It’s also a great place to eat lunch or dinner while you watch the paddlers forge their way across the Inner Harbour. Alternatively, you can catch an act on the Cultural Stage while you eat.
 
6. The Opportunity to Support the BC Cancer Foundation
Buy a paper lantern for $2 and write a message of hope, love or remembrance on its tag before hanging your lantern at the Dragon Boat Festival. It’s a moving way to show your support for the BC Cancer Foundation. The Lights of Courage Illumination Ceremony takes place on Saturday 19 at 9pm.
 
If you’re looking for a hotel near all the dragon boat action, the Best Western PLUS Carlton Plaza is a great option. Take a walk down Government Street from this AAA Three Diamond heritage hotel and in seven minutes you’ll find yourself amid the Inner Harbour and the Legislature Buildings.