The 2025 dragon boat season in North America is packed with thrilling races, cultural celebrations, and community gatherings. From elite championships to vibrant local festivals, here's your guide to the must-attend events from June through November.
📅 July 4–6, 2025
📍 Montreal, Canada
Hosted at the historic Olympic Basin in Parc Jean-Drapeau, this championship brings together club crews from across the Americas. Organized by seasoned hosts 22Dragons and H2O Playground, the event will feature both competitive and community divisions, fostering inclusivity and showcasing the sport's growth in the Western Hemisphere.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 August 20–24, 2025
📍 Montreal, Canada
Also held at the Olympic Basin, this national championship serves as a qualifier for the 15th Club Crew World Championships. Teams from across Canada will compete in various categories, aiming for national titles and international qualification.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 October 16–19, 2025
📍 Sarasota, Florida, United States
Held at Nathan Benderson Park, this biennial event determines the top club crews in the U.S. Winners earn the opportunity to represent the country at the next IDBF Club Crew World Championships.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 June 14–15, 2025
📍 Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Celebrating its 37th edition, this festival is one of North America's premier dragon boat events, attracting over 5,000 athletes and 65,000 spectators. Beyond the races, attendees can enjoy cultural performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 June 20–22, 2025
📍 Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
As one of the continent's largest dragon boat festivals, Ottawa's event combines fierce competition with community spirit. With over 200 teams participating, the festival also emphasizes charitable efforts, having raised millions for local causes.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 June 20–22, 2025
📍 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Held on False Creek, this is North America's largest and most competitive dragon boat festival, featuring over 200 crews from around the world. The event also includes cultural performances, food vendors, and family activities.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 July 19, 2025
📍 Rockland State Park, New York, United States
Debuting this year, the festival aims to become a staple in the U.S. dragon boat scene, offering competitive races in a picturesque setting just north of Manhattan.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 July 26, 2025
📍 Chicago, Illinois, United States
Set against the backdrop of Chicago's skyline, this festival offers thrilling races and a vibrant cultural experience, attracting teams from across the Midwest and beyond.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 July 30–August 2, 2025
📍 Bemidji, Minnesota, United States
This multi-day festival features races, live music, and family-friendly activities, all set on the scenic Lake Bemidji. It's a highlight of the summer in northern Minnesota.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 August 22–23, 2025
📍 Superior, Wisconsin, United States
Organized by the Superior Rotary Club, this festival combines competitive racing with community fundraising, supporting local veterans and other charitable causes.
🔗Championship Web-site
📅 October 4, 2025
📍 Orlando, Florida, United States
Held at Bill Frederick Park, this festival offers a mix of competitive racing and cultural festivities, attracting teams from across the southeastern U.S.
🔗Championship Web-site
Ready to Paddle?
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or new to the sport, the 2025 North American dragon boat season offers a plethora of opportunities to compete, connect, and celebrate. Mark your calendars, gather your team, and get ready to make waves!
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