We are counting down to our first mass participation event to take place since 2019. 

And it is full steam ahead for this year’s weekend-long festival, which takes place on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 at Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury. 

More than 30 teams will take to the water in heats in 40ft long Dragon Boats to battle It out and be named champions. 

Back together

Our hugely popular Dragon Boat Festival was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic meaning not only did we lose out on vital fundraising, but the community and our loyal supporters were unable to attend one of our most eagerly anticipated events and a highlight of the Shrewsbury social calendar. 

Now thousands of people will again watch from the banks of the River Severn while the boats churn through the water to the beat of a drum. 

Teams

There will be a carnival atmosphere in the air as fancy dress is encouraged amongst the teams adding to the friendly rivalry. 

This year, the festival is sponsored by marketing firm Croud which has offices nationwide and a base in Shrewsbury. 

They will be joined on the river by teams including several from Severn Hospice, midwives and emergency room staff from SaTH, pubs and restaurants, sports teams and businesses.  

Join us

Jess Druce from our fundraising team said: “We are so looking forward to Dragons 2022. Two years has been a long time to be away, but everyone is really excited for the weekend. The festival raises thousands of pounds for us and is vital in allowing us to provide compassionate and dignified care to thousands of local people when they need us most. 

“It certainly is going to be quite an event and we know it will be amazing not just for those teams taking part but also for the spectators. We have had some glorious weather recently and hope for more of the same. Come on down and hear the dragons roar.” 

Racing starts at 10am on Saturday and Sunday.