Dozens of dragon boats won't be in the water this year as social distancing becomes the dominant way to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. (submitted/Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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18th annual Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival cancelled over COVID-19 concerns

Mar 21, 2020 | 12:26 PM

NANAIMO – There won’t be dozens of dragon boats in Nanaimo waters and hundreds of spectators watching this summer.

The annual Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival, in its 18th year, is cancelled for 2020.

“The world is now gripped with an unforeseen and what appears to be an unprecedented virus outbreak-COVID-19,” a release from festival organizers said.

“We believe that the outbreak will not be contained in time for our festival this year, July 10 to 12, 2020.”

Two options will be available for teams already registered.

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Registration funds will be held in a trust for the 2021 festival or refunds will be available upon request.

“We take this step with heavy hearts but with clear minds,” the release said.

As of Saturday, March 21, the number of COVID-19 cases on Vancouver Island is 37.

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