The San Diego Dragon Boat Team hosts the San Diego International Dragon Boat Race at North Tecolote Shores on Mission Bay, Saturday and Sunday, September 26–27, 2026.
College teams, local corporate crews, and international club teams compete in wooden dragon boats over 250m and 500m courses off the Tecolote Shores waterfront. Pre-race festivities include lion dance performances, music, and cultural programming, while a Vendor Village lines the shore with food trucks, jewelry, clothing, and other goods from local San Diego businesses.
Rooted in a tradition that began in 1983 when Singapore presented three dragon boats to the city, the race supports San Diego’s paddling community and promotes health, fitness, and camaraderie. Free parking is available in public lots along E. Mission Bay Drive, with spectators welcome at no charge.
For registration, schedule, and full event details visit sddbt.org/festival
