Irish Dragon Boat Association
PRESS RELEASE — IRELAND-CHINA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL![]()
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For Immediate Release ![]()
Event Details:![]()
Date: Sunday, 7 June 2026![]()
Time: 10:20hrs – Eye Dotting Ceremony![]()
10:40hrs to 17:20hrs – Dragon Boat Racing ![]()
Venue: River Barrow, Carlow Town Park, Carlow![]()
Admission: Free and open to all![]()
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The Irish Dragon Boat Association is proud to announce the return of the Ireland-China Dragon Boat Festival (formerly the Barrow Dragon Boat Regatta) this Sunday, 7 June 2026, on the River Barrow at Carlow Town Park. This vibrant cultural and sporting celebration brings together communities from across Ireland for a full day of racing, cultural exchange and friendship.![]()
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With the support of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Ireland, we are delighted to host a mini Chinese Cultural Festival alongside the regatta, featuring traditional activities and fun giveaways for all ages.![]()
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Honouring a 2,000 Year Old Tradition![]()
The festival showcases the 2,000 year old tradition of dragon boat racing, honouring its Chinese heritage while celebrating its strong and growing presence in Ireland. The event will begin with the traditional Eye Dotting Ceremony, where the dragons are symbolically awakened — a ritual believed to bring protection, vitality, and good fortune to all who take part.![]()
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Crews from across the country will then take to the water in a thrilling series of races throughout the day, demonstrating teamwork, rhythm, and the unmistakable spirit of dragon boating.![]()
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A Celebration of Ireland–China Friendship![]()
This year’s festival highlights the deepening cultural ties between Ireland and China. Visitors can enjoy family activities and opportunities to learn more about the history and symbolism behind dragon boating. The event continues to serve as a joyful bridge between cultures, promoting unity, respect and shared celebration.![]()
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Statement from the Irish Dragon Boat Association![]()
“The Ireland China Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most colourful and meaningful events in our calendar. It brings people together — paddlers, families, volunteers, and spectators — to celebrate teamwork, heritage, and community spirit. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Carlow Town Park this Sunday.”![]()
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Join the Celebration![]()
The Irish Dragon Boat Association invites the public to join the celebration, cheer on the teams, and experience one of Ireland’s most vibrant multicultural festivals.![]()
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For media enquiries, interviews, or accreditation, please contact: ![]()
Irish Dragon Boat Association Email: info@dragonboat.ie Phone: +353 (0)85 7422902
We are thinking about adding Dragon Boat Drifting to a city near you! 😜😁😆![]()
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www.facebook.com/reel/2072218140059201
Festival Countdown — The countdown begins.![]()
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Only 5 days to go until the Ireland-China Dragon Boat Festival comes to Carlow Town Park, Carlow on Sunday, 7th June 2026. Dragon boats, culture, colour and community — it’s almost time. Are you race‑ready?”
Ireland-China Dragon Boat Festival (formerly Barrow DBR) - Sunday, 7th June 2026![]()
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Please find attached the race programme for next Sunday.![]()
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#IDBA #dragonboatfestival #dragonboat @followers
Saturday, saw the IDBA in O'Brien's Bridge, Co. Clare/Limerick delivering a helm course. Well done to all 4 helms who successfully passed the course.Limerick Dragonsck Dragons ![]()
Limerick Dragonsck DragonAthy Dragon Boat Club Boat Club ![]()
Anthony - @ballinadragonboatracingclub