Volunteer at the Calgary Dragon Boat Festival
updated: May 17, 2026
Get ready to join one of Calgary’s most exciting summer events! The 2026 Calgary Dragon Boat Race & Festival is happening August 7-9 at North Glenmore Park, and we’re calling on enthusiastic individuals, teams, and community groups to join us as volunteers.
With over 1,800 paddlers, 4,000+ spectators, dozens of cultural vendors, live entertainment, and races happening all weekend long, the energy is electric — and it all comes together thanks to the support of our incredible volunteer crew.
Volunteering at the festival is more than just lending a hand — it’s about being part of something fun, meaningful, and community-driven. Whether you’re passionate about sport, love working with people, or just want to try something new, there’s a role for you.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteers are the heartbeat of our festival. As a token of our appreciation, all volunteers receive a high-quality dry-fit T-shirt, a delicious buffet lunch during your shift, and — just for fun — you’ll have a chance to hop into a dragon boat with your fellow volunteers for an exclusive paddling experience!
You’ll gain hands-on experience, meet new people, and contribute to one of Calgary’s largest cultural and sporting events. Whether you’re helping out for a few hours or the whole weekend, your time makes a huge impact.
Please note: Some positions fill up quickly! If your preferred role is already full, we may assign you to another fun and essential position based on event needs.
Race-Side Volunteer Opportunities (near water)
If you love being close to the action, our race-related roles put you right on the frontlines of the competition:
Dock Management (Saturday & Sunday):
Be part of the high-energy dock crew, where paddlers launch and return from their races. Volunteers in this role help steady boats, assist paddlers on and off, and ensure safety protocols are followed. It’s a physically active position and gives you the best view of the water!
Timing Tower (Saturday & Sunday):
Work alongside our race officials at the finish line. You’ll help track race results and ensure timing accuracy for each heat. A test run will be held Friday, August 8, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Assistant Finish Referee:
Support the Chief of Finish in verifying final results and maintaining fairness during races. It’s a great opportunity if you enjoy detail and precision.
Festival & Community Support Roles (on land)
Prefer to be on land helping guests and keeping things running smoothly? These roles are perfect for outgoing, team-oriented volunteers:
Event Information Distribution:
Help us spread the word! About two weeks before the Dragon Boat Race & Festival, we’ll need a small team of volunteers to deliver event notices door-to-door throughout the Lakeview community. It’s a great way to get outdoors, enjoy a walk, and help ensure our neighbors are informed about the upcoming excitement at North Glenmore Park. All materials will be provided — we just need your helping hands (and feet)!
Festival Ground Crew:
Our behind-the-scenes heroes! Help with site setup, signage, cleanliness, and maintaining a positive, organized environment throughout the weekend.
VIP Service Team:
Support our hospitality efforts by greeting and assisting special guests, dignitaries, and sponsors. You’ll help ensure they feel welcomed and cared for during their festival visit.
Information & Volunteer Tent:
Help fellow volunteers get checked in, geared up, and stay energized with snacks and water. You’ll also assist festival goers with basic questions and directions.
Volunteer Photographers:
We need keen eyes to capture the vibrant moments of the weekend — the races, crowds, cultural performances, and behind-the-scenes magic. If you’ve got a good eye and a camera, we want you!
Trico Homes Kid’s Zone (in partnership with Diversecities):
Bring your playful energy to our family zone! Help children and families enjoy safe, creative activities like games, crafts, and cultural experiences.
Volunteer Orientation
A volunteer orientation session (via Zoom) will be scheduled prior to the festival Aug 5, 2026 at 8:00pm. It’s a great chance to meet fellow volunteers, get a full rundown of your role, ask questions, and get pumped for the weekend.
Ready to Join the Crew?
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community while having a blast — and we’d love to have you on board.
Have questions or want to sign up? Email us at: treasurer@calgarydragonboatsociety.com
Let’s make this year’s Calgary Dragon Boat Race & Festival the best one yet — together.
Positions
Paddles up, and we’ll see you on the shore!
Volunteer Registration Form
updated: August 1, 2025
Registration is now closed. Thank you for you interest.
