The Buffalo Niagara Dragon Boat Festival

The Buffalo Niagara Dragon Boat Festival, organized by Hope Chest, is an annual event held at Buffalo RiverWorks that celebrates community, resilience, and the sport of dragon boat racing. This year’s festival is scheduled for Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 7:45 AM to 5:00 PM. The event features teams from various backgrounds, including breast cancer survivors, local corporations, and community organizations, competing in 350-meter races. No prior experience is necessary to participate, as training sessions are available leading up to the event. The day kicks off with the traditional “Awakening the Dragon” ceremony, symbolizing the re-energizing of the dragon boat spirit. Other highlights include the Carnation Ceremony, honoring those affected by breast cancer, and a 200-meter loop race for the top-seeded teams.

Beyond the races, the festival offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Attendees can enjoy a children’s area with crafts and face painting, browse vendor booths, participate in a basket raffle, and shop for Hope Chest merchandise. A 50/50 raffle adds to the excitement, with the winner announced at 1:30 PM. All proceeds from the event support Hope Chest’s mission to provide exercise, nutrition, and wellness programs for breast cancer survivors. The festival not only showcases the thrilling sport of dragon boat racing but also fosters a sense of community and support for those affected by breast cancer.