About
A two-weekend celebration of competition, culture, and community in the heart of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Dragon Boat Festival 2026 brings vitality to the city’s waterfront, activating public spaces and supporting local businesses through a shared passion for historic sport.
Featuring over 30 teams and 1,000 paddlers, the festival connects corporate groups, youth programs, and competitive athletes across the Bay Area.
As San Francisco continues to revitalize its neighborhoods, the festival plays a vital role in reinforcing the city’s identity as a world-class cultural destination.
The Force Behind the Festival
The California Dragon Boat Association (CDBA) is one of the longest-standing dragon boat organizations in the United States. CDBA has been instrumental in growing the sport throughout Northern California, building competitive excellence while preserving the cultural roots and traditions of dragon boat racing. Through training, youth engagement, and regional competitions, CDBA fosters teamwork, discipline, and community pride both on and off the water.
For more than 56 years, CYC has provided youth in San Francisco a sense of belonging and vital tools and experiences to succeed in life. Our mission is to encourage a diverse population of high-need young people to explore their full potential through academic, career, family, and community life. CYC’s work is rooted in its three core service areas: Health and Wellness, Enrichment and Advancement, and Community Engagement.
Experience the Festival Events
Community Dragon Boat Day
Come try dragon boating in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Chinatown Opening Ceremony
Join us as we kick off the festival in the heart of Chinatown
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Friendship Race 1
Novice Races on the Water
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Friendship Day 2
Final day for first-time teams to paddle, connect, and race.
Sunday, June 21, 2026
Thank you to our sponsors
Our sponsors make the San Francisco Dragon Boat Festival possible. Their support fuels our commitment to culture, competition, and community.