Awakening the Dragons
Paddlin' the Prairies | On Regina's Mighty ShoresRegina Dragon Boat Opening Ceremonies

What is the ‘Awakening the Dragons’?
The ceremony traditionally ends the slumber and re-energizes the spirit of the dragons after a long winter.
The priest’s blessings ask for safety and good luck for all and culminate with the dotting of the eyes with paint to signify the awakening of the dragons.
The entire performance lasts about 45 minutes and is performed by the Ching Chung EvergreenTaoist Priests from Vancouver, Canada who has performed this ceremony since 1992.
The ceremony also includes a traditional Lion Dance performed by Chung Wah Kung Fu School and a Dragon Dance performed by the Confucius Institute of the University of Regina.
The opening ceremony is FREE and open to the public. It is the kick-off to the Festival races that begin Friday afternoon.

OUR SPONSORS
Dragon Festival Oath
This single paddle represents harmony, friendship and peace among the world’s people.
With the symbolic passing of this paddle, we pledge our commitment to the unification of that multi-faceted community with humility, goodwill and dignity. To harmony, friendship and peace.
