Competitors will once again take to the waters of Darling Harbour this weekend as dragon boat racing returns to the Sydney Lunar Festival program for the first time since 2020.
This Saturday and Sunday, 1,250 paddlers will compete in 72 races in what has become the largest race event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
Taoist monks will perform a blessing of the waters and red paint will be dabbed onto the dragon head of a traditional style boat in a ritual that is said to awaken the dragons.
Lord Mayor Clover Moore welcomed the return of the popular event, which draws enthusiastic entrants from Nowra to the Northern Beaches and spectators from across the Greater Sydney region and beyond.
“It is wonderful to have this visually spectacular event feature again this year as part of our Sydney Lunar Festival celebrations,” the Lord Mayor said. “It’s fast-paced, fun to watch, and draws crowds into Darling Harbour and surrounds to appreciate our fabulous waterfront and city - and support our local businesses at the same time.”
“The City of Sydney and Dragon Boats NSW have worked tirelessly to make this happen and I know it’s going to be a wonderful weekend of racing for the many clubs across NSW travelling to Sydney for the event, as well as the many corporate teams taking part.”
Dragon Boats NSW CEO, Tony Henderson, said the organisation was excited to be back in the water for the Year of the Tiger celebrations.
“Dragon Boats NSW is proud of its long-standing association with the Lunar New Year Festival and the hosting of the Dragon Boat regatta since the late nineties,” Mr Henderson said.
“With over 1,000 paddlers of all ages, I guarantee we will see some thrilling competition, as the spectacular dragon boats race through the waters to pounding drums and cheering spectators. And what better backdrop for this iconic event and festival than beautiful Darling Harbour.
“The Lunar New Year regatta is an important event in our season as it provides us with a great opportunity to promote and show off our dynamic and explosive sport to the public.
“We invite all of Sydney to come down to Darling Harbour and get up close to all the action and watch this thrilling competition.
“Dragon boating is more than just a sport. It is an inclusive and diverse community - one that encourages members to achieve something greater than they previously thought possible.”
Dragon boats were first used in China 2,500 years ago. Legend holds the races originated to honour patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself, and honours the attempts by local fisherman to save him in their boats.
Originating in the rivers of southern China, today dragon boat racing has evolved into a global competitive water sport with a passionate following.
You can see the vast range of events, dining specials and entertainment to mark the Lunar New Year and Year of the Tiger on the City of Sydney’s What’s On website.
Sydney Lunar Festival Dragon Boat weekend
When: Saturday, 7.30am to 5pm, and Sunday, 9.00am to 3pm
Where: Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour
Cost: Free
For media inquiries please contact Belinda Wallis Phone 0467 810 160 or email bwallis@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore contact Trisha Croaker Phone 0418 397 462 or email lordmayormedia@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au