Posted on 17th June 2026

One of Shrewsbury’s popular summer spectacles is ready to make waves as the Severn Hospice Dragon Boat Festival returns to the River Severn in July – with organisers predicting another action-packed weekend on the water.

Our much-loved festival takes place on July 18 and 19 and is already proving a huge hit with more than 50 teams battling it out paddle-to-paddle in front of thousands of spectators.

Team sponsorship generates thousands of pounds to support us and the specialist care we provide to local families living with incurable illness across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and North Powys.

Lizzy Ellis, our events fundraiser, said: “It’s shaping up to be another fantastic year – we’ve got dozens of teams who are ready to hit the water and there’s a real buzz around the event!

“It’s one of those weekends that people genuinely look forward to every year and we’re so excited to see so many people getting involved.”

The Dragon Boat Festival has become a firm fixture in the county calendar over the past two decades, raising vital funds for the hospice while bringing businesses, community groups and families together for a weekend of fun on the river.

Last year’s event raised more than £110,000, and organisers are hopeful this year’s festival could top even that total.

Lizzy added: “Events like this make a huge difference for us and the local people we care for.

“As a charity, we need to raise £2 for every £3 we spend – and every year, the support from our local community helps us be there for nearly 3,000 people facing heartbreak.”

Over the past year, Severn Hospice has also completed a £3 million refurbishment and extension of its oldest ward in Shrewsbury, ensuring it meets the needs of today’s patients and provides a warm, welcoming environment for patients and families.

Lizzy added: “Every team that signs up and every person who comes along to support helps us continue providing compassionate care for local people when they need it most.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to Persimmon Homes, Charles Church and IHP – Integrated Health Projects for sponsoring boats at this year’s event. Their support helps make the whole weekend possible.

“There’s still time for other local businesses to get involved too. Sponsoring Dragons is a fantastic way to support a local cause while also raising awareness of your business in front of thousands of people across the weekend.

“And if you’re just keen for a day of fun, there are still a few boats available on Sunday.

“There’s nothing quite like our Dragon Boat Festival. You’ve got the racing, the cheering crowds and the friendly competition – it’s always an oar-some weekend from start to finish!”

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend across the weekend, with teams racing head-to-head for the coveted title of Dragon Boat Champions 2026.

As well as a memorable summer day out, the event helps support local families living with incurable illness.

To find out more, visit severnhospice.org.uk/events