Regina 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.  As a result of covid-19 the Taoist Priests are unable to attend the 2022 festival but are expected to make a return in 2023.

The ceremony for 2022 will include a traditional Lion Dance performed by the Canadian Hung Kuen Association of Regina 

Further cultural entertainment will include  Kris Alvarez and the Alvarez Family will be performing 2 songs of Saskatchewan and Misty Wensel will perform a Fada Dance

Speakers will include Her Worship, Mayor Sandra Masters, MLA Laura Ross, a 1st Nations Elder (TBD), and the president of the RDBF Barry Eisenzimmer

The conclusion will be the Passing of the Paddle ceremony 

The opening ceremony is FREE and open to the public.