Roar of paddles and cheers filled Heritage Park at 21st Dragon Boat Festival

The Barrie Dragon Boat Festival held annually in Heritage Park brings teams together for a fun-fill ay of camaraderie and fundraising while racing dragon boats.

The roar of paddles and cheers filled Heritage Park over the weekend as the Annual Dragon Boat Festival returned to Kempenfelt Bay.

Now in its 21st year, teams from across the region raced along the Barrie waterfront, drawing crowds and celebrating community spirit.

Organized with help from the Barrie Public Library, the event raised funds for local causes while bringing people together for a day of competition and fun.

This year, nearly 40 teams competed for the winning title, raising money for their charity of choice.

The Barrie Dragon Boat Festival is presented by Tim Hortons, the title sponsor. The long-standing event is made possible by the support of volunteers, community partners, and teams.

Since 2003, competing teams have raised over $2 million across sixty different charities, including the Barrie Public Library’s Future Branches Campaign.