Kamloops Dragon Boat Festival cancelled due to poor air quality

KAMLOOPS — Wildfire smoke has rained on the parade for the Kamloops Dragon Boat Festival. 

Speaking briefly to CFJC Today, Festival Director Lucas Sweet says the 500-metre races on the South Thompson River Saturday (Aug. 8) have been cancelled due to poor air quality. As of Thursday, the South Thompson region is under an orange warning air quality advisory with widespread smoke in the forecast. 

The Kamloops Sports Council is looking ahead to carrying out the Dragon Boat Festival in 2027. 

As of publication, RibFest is still scheduled to take place at Riverside Park from Friday to Sunday, with Hot Nite in the City also taking place along Victoria Street from First to Seventh Avenue.