The 20th Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival – compete in partnership with our event company NewWave Events – will take place on Saturday 5th September 2026 on the River Cam at Fen Ditton.
Up to 10 people paddle each 30’ boat with a drummer at the front beating time and our helm at the tail steering a straight course. No previous experience is required, just plenty of team spirit!
*Illumina confirmed sponsor for Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival 2026!*
Illumina
Illumina is a global genomics and human health leader innovating the future of precision health.
We develop DNA sequencing and array‑based life sciences technologies to enable boundless research discovery and personalised health. Our products help pioneer advances in oncology, genetic and infectious diseases, reproductive health, and beyond. Our technology empowers continued innovation toward positive and impactful people‑ and planet‑healing solutions.
Quote from Mark Robinson, VP and GM, UK & Ireland, Illumina:
“Illumina is delighted to once again join forces with ACT to support the 2026 Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival, taking place on 5 September. Last year’s fun‑filled event raised an incredible amount for the new Cancer Research Hospital at Addenbrooke’s. It’s a fantastic opportunity to give something back to the communities in which we live and work, and we can’t wait to make an even bigger impact this year.”
Watch the video below from the 2023 Festival!
The Ditton Meadows location offers a superb venue and, as well as the exciting races, a range of bankside entertainment, food stalls and fun activities guarantee a fabulous day out for all the family.
The Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival is mainly aimed at corporate groups who are looking for a great team building day out whilst supporting and raising money for Addenbrooke’s. Upon entering, you can choose to upgrade your entry package to include a donation to Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust or you can simply raise funds in your own way.
How to sign up
If you would like to sign up your team and find out more details, please visit https://dragonboatevents.co.uk/cambridge-dragon-boat-festival/
To find out more email our team at corporatepartnerships@act4addenbrookes.org.uk.
All funds raised from the Cambridge Dragon Boat Festival 2026 will be used in support of the Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital. The Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital will bring together clinical and research expertise in a new, world-class hospital, designed in partnership with staff and patients. We will detect cancer earlier, treat it more precisely, and save more lives.
Once you have signed up with NewWave Events, we will add you onto our fundraising platform enthuse where you will automatically have a fundraising page set up for your company. We are asking our teams if they can share their company team page with your colleagues, friends, and family to encourage donations and support the hospital’s work.
Top Fundraisers’ Prize!
Raise the most for ACT and win big! The top fundraising team will take home the charity trophy plus an exclusive prize from The Tivoli in Cambridge — including a round of golf for your team, six tear-and-share pizzas, and two bottles of prosecco.
Find out more at www.thetivoli.co.uk
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