Teams compete in the Rowan Chamber's annual Dragon Boat Festival. - Photo by Eric Shepherd
Paddlers from across the region are set to compete at the Rowan Chamber’s 11th Annual Dragon Boat Festival on July 26, 2024. This popular event will take place at High Rock Lake, bringing together corporate teams, community groups, and first-time paddlers for a day of teamwork and spirited competition. Teams will race in authentic 20-person dragon boats, guided by the rhythm of an onboard drummer, as they vie for medals and bragging rights.
The festival features a diverse lineup of participants, including local favorites such as Strokes of Genius, sponsored by F&M Bank, who are eager to defend their title as last year’s community champions. “We’re so excited to compete again this year and come together as a team,” said Lori Jordan, team captain of Strokes of Genius. “It’s all about having fun, working together, and celebrating our community.”
Event Highlights and Community Participation
The Rowan Chamber invites the entire community to join in the festivities, encouraging attendees to support their favorite teams. Chamber President Elaine Spalding expressed appreciation for the event’s sponsors, teams, vendors, and volunteers, stating, “All the money raised goes toward our small business programs and services.”
The festival will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Shrine Club, located at 6480 Long Ferry Road, Salisbury. Recognized as the largest annual spectator event on High Rock Lake, the Dragon Boat Festival has become a key highlight on the Rowan County calendar, attracting teams of paddlers, local businesses, families, and spectators from across the East Coast.
Attendees can look forward to thrilling dragon boat races, local vendor booths, food trucks, and a range of family-friendly activities throughout the day. Last year’s event attracted more than 5,000 spectators, showcasing the festival’s growing popularity.
Logistics and Travel Incentives
The Rowan Chamber Dragon Boat Festival is free to attend, with guests encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Please note that pets, coolers, and outside food are not permitted. Parking is available for $10 per car, or $20 for preferred parking, with all proceeds benefiting the East Rowan football team. Boats can view the races from the main channel or dock behind the Shrine Club to enjoy the festivities.
For those traveling to the event, there is an opportunity to turn the visit into a weekend getaway. By booking an overnight stay through VisitRowanCounty.com, guests can receive 50 percent back in VISA e-Gift Card rewards. The “Summer Fun in Rowan County Stay & Play Package” offers an excellent chance to explore more of Rowan County while saving on accommodation.
For further details about the festival, visit rowanchamber.com/dragon-boat-festival. This annual gathering promises to be an exciting day filled with camaraderie and competition, celebrating the spirit of the community on the waters of High Rock Lake.
