★★★★★ 4.4(1,500 reviews)5.0 km from hotel~9 min drive
North America's largest dragon boat festival takes over Mooney's Bay each June. Over 200 teams race 12-metre boats, while the shore hosts concerts, food vendors, and cultural performances celebrating Ottawa's diversity.
Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival is a highlight of Ottawa's event calendar, drawing visitors from across Canada and beyond.
Book your hotel early — Ottawa festivals fill up fast, and Adam's Airport Inn is just 7 minutes from the terminal with complimentary breakfast and free parking for direct guests.
Getting There from Adam’s Airport Inn
9 min
From Adam's Airport Inn, take Bank Street northbound — it's about 9 minutes by car. Free parking at Mooney's Bay.
Why Guests Love This
The Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival is one of those events that visitors stumble into and never forget. Over 200 teams racing 12-metre boats at Mooney’s Bay creates a visual spectacle unlike any other Ottawa event, and the surrounding festival — live concerts, international food vendors, and cultural performances — turns the beach park into an all-day destination. The venue is just 12 minutes from Adam’s Airport Inn, making it one of the most accessible major festivals for hotel guests. Families particularly enjoy the relaxed waterfront atmosphere and the free admission to watch the races.
FreeNear Hotel
Details
AddressMooney's Bay Park, 2960 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada
When does the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival take place?
The festival runs over a weekend in late June at Mooney’s Bay Park. Racing takes place Saturday and Sunday from morning through late afternoon, with concerts and cultural programming running into the evening. Exact dates are published on the festival website each spring.
Is the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival free to watch?
Watching the dragon boat races from the shoreline is free. Access to the main festival area with food vendors, merchandise, and cultural displays is also free. Some premium viewing areas and VIP experiences may require a ticket. Concert headliners in the evening may have separate ticketed admission.
Can I participate in the dragon boat races?
Yes. Teams register months in advance, and the festival also offers “learn to paddle” sessions and recreational heats for newcomers. If you want to race competitively, you need to register a full team (typically 20 paddlers plus a drummer and steerer). Individual paddlers can sometimes join community teams that welcome visitors.
Is the Dragon Boat Festival suitable for children?
Absolutely. The beach setting at Mooney’s Bay provides natural entertainment — children can watch the races from the sand, explore cultural displays, and enjoy the food vendors. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-oriented. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, as the festival grounds have limited shade.
How do I get to the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival from Ottawa Airport?
Mooney’s Bay Park is located at 2960 Riverside Drive, approximately 7 km from Ottawa International Airport (YOW). Stay at Adam’s Airport Inn (7 minutes from the terminal) and drive about 12 minutes north via Riverside Drive. Parking at Mooney’s Bay fills quickly on race days — arrive early or consider a rideshare.
Staying in Ottawa?
Adam’s Airport Inn is just 9 minutes from Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival. Complimentary breakfast and up to 14 days of free parking included with every stay.