About Our Event
How to Get Started
People that are new to the sport and want to find out more on how to get started should click on the following link. It will hopefully answer some of the most commonly asked questions as well as inform you as to what you are in for as a competitor.
Click to enter our ‘How to Get Started’ Section
What are Dragon Boat Races?
Dragon Boat Racing is the hottest, fastest growing water sport around. Held as an annual event in over 40 countries, it has become a global phenomenon. In Vernon it is an admission-free event that brings together over 10,000 spectators and over hundreds of paddlers and volunteers into a premier sporting and cultural showcase.
As a sponsor, participant, or spectator of the Greater Vernon Dragon Boat Race & Festival, you will experience first hand the excitement of water sport racing, the beauty of a culture, and the benefits of being part of a winning team. As a sponsor, company or organization, you will gain valuable community profile while you contribute to and celebrate this city wide festival, held in co-operation with the District of Coldstream and the City of Vernon, for the enjoyment of all.
The Venue
The races take place on the picturesque setting of Kalamalka Lake at Vernon, British Columbia. Kalamalka is a word derived from a local native Canadian dialect meaning 'Lake of Many Colors'. This very much describes this lake with its various hues of emeralds and blues.
The dates of these races take place during one of the warmest weekends of the summer months. This has allowed us to provide a wonderful atmosphere consisting of a stage with live entertainment, a beverage garden for after the races and for the pleasure of the spectators and a festival consisting of food, buskers, clothing vendors and many other delights.
We hope you join us during this weekend of exciting races and the hospitality of the Okanagan Valley.
