SaskPower Dragon Boat Festival

The objective of the volunteer-run, non profit organization, called the SaskPower Regina Dragon Boat Festival Inc., is to foster better understanding, appreciation and awareness of Asian culture and heritage within our community. Regina's Dragon Boat Festival has been identified by Tourism Regina as "the fastest growing community event in Saskatchewan." Held in beautiful Wascana Park, and drawing 20,000 spectators, this is a unique show of cross-cultural community spirit with 65 teams participating in the races. In 1992 the International Ching Chung Taoist Church presented a Dragon Boat to Regina's Festival. Completely run by volunteers, this festival has developed strong community and corporate support. Regina's festival begins Friday evening with Taoist Priests "awakening the dragons." The Dragon Boat races run non-stop on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. While thousands of people cheer the paddlers on, thousands of others fill Wascana Park enjoying the international food, Asian entertainment, children's activities (Asian crafts and games), and the Dragon's Lair (a tent that accommodates 2,000 people; its a place to get out of the sun or rain, and it's also our beer gardens featuring live entertainment). Dragon Boat Festival's are based on an ancient Chinese legend, dating back over 2,000 years. The 48-foot boats have dragon heads and tails and are "blessed" by the Taoist Priests during Friday evening's opening ceremonies. The boats are filled with 20-22 paddlers, a steer person and a drummer. Teams race in youth and adult categories --- both competitive and recreation.