Get ready, London. The London Dragon Boat Festival is back for its second year, and it’s time to put Thursday 16th September 2027 in the diary.
It’s time for London businesses to get a team together for a day of racing, entertainment and a BBQ at Surrey Quays. Entries open in December, so begin those conversations in the office now.
Race for a cause that matters to you
This is an open charity event, so every team picks its own cause. It could be a local charity close to home, a national one the company already backs, or one that means something to someone on the team. Every pound your team raises goes to the cause you’ve chosen.
“We’re so excited to be back at Surrey Quays for year two. We loved launching the festival, and we can’t wait to welcome teams back to the water. Save the date and get your team ready.” said Lucy Morton, Executive Director at NewWave Events.
What’s included
Teams can have up to 15 people, with 10 paddlers and a drummer in the boat at a time, so everyone can get a go. The drummer sets the pace, an experienced helm steers, and your team brings the rest. You’ll race head-to-head over a series of heats, with medals for the top-placed teams. No experience is needed, just a bit of team spirit and a competitive streak.
There’s plenty going on between races. A commentator keeps everyone up to speed with the action on the water, there’s music playing throughout, and a magician working the crowd on the bank, plus a few fun extras. Bring colleagues, clients and supporters along to cheer from the bank.
Every team also gets 11 BBQ tickets included in their entry, so the day runs on good food as well as good racing.
Are you a charity?
We’d love to hear from you. As this is an open charity event, there are a few ways for your charity to get involved:
- Be chosen by a team. Teams already entered can pick your charity as the cause they race for.
- Promote the festival yourselves. Spread the word to your supporters, volunteers and corporate contacts, and encourage teams to enter and raise money for you.
- Join us on the day. Charity stalls are a great way to meet teams and spectators and tell people about your work.
If you’d like to find out more about getting involved in 2027, get in touch at isabel@newwave-events.co.uk.
Key Information for Teams:
- Event: London Dragon Boat Festival 2027
- Date: Thursday 16th September 2027
- Location: Surrey Docks Fitness and Water Sports Centre
- Charity: Open charity
Get your team excited
Entries open in December. Until then, teams can find out more at dragonboatevents.co.uk or email isabel@newwave-events.co.uk to register their interest and be first in line when places are released. Save the date, get your team on board and start deciding who you’ll race for.