The River Medway is set to come alive with color, competition, and community spirit on Sunday, September 6, 2026, as the Tonbridge Lions Club hosts its 13th annual Dragon Boat Race. One of the undisputed highlights of the town’s summer calendar, the day-long event will draw crowds to the riverbanks in the heart of Tonbridge at Castle Walk and Baron’s Walk.
From 9:00 am until around 4:30 pm, 30 teams will battle it out along a fast-paced 200-metre course. Each crew is guaranteed at least three races, with the top-performing boats advancing to a high-stakes Grand Final before capping off the afternoon with a trophy and medal ceremony.
Beyond the aquatic rivalry, spectators can look forward to the fan-favorite Best Dressed Team competition, which routinely brings vibrant costumes and eccentric themes to the water.
A Sold-Out Spectacle for a Good Cause
Illustrating the event’s growing popularity, all 30 team slots for the 2026 race have already been fully booked. With the competitive lineup locked in, the focus turns entirely to creating an unforgettable day out for supporters and visitors.
Entry for spectators is completely free. Families are encouraged to gather along the riverbanks, enjoy local food and craft stalls, and cheer on the paddlers. Every penny raised throughout the day directly supports the Tonbridge Lions Club’s charitable initiatives across the local community.
“The Dragon Boat Race is one of the proudest days in our calendar, and it’s become a real fixture for the town,” said Patricia Rocha Jordan, Race Director. “It’s a brilliant, free family day out, and the support from the community and our local businesses is what makes it possible. We’d love to see as many people as possible down by the river cheering the teams on.”
A Double Feature Weekend
The race is organized by the Tonbridge Lions Club in partnership with Dragon Boat Events, a professional operator overseeing all on-water logistics and safety. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the race takes place alongside the Tonbridge Food & Drink Festival running the same weekend, turning the town center into a buzzing hub of food, entertainment, and sport.
Key Event Information
- Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
- Time: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Location: River Medway (Castle Walk & Baron’s Walk), Tonbridge
- Admission: Free for all spectators
- Cause: All proceeds benefit local community projects via the Tonbridge Lions Club
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