Rideau Canal dragon boat festival cancelled for fifth winter in a row [Video]

The Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival on the Rideau Canal Skateway has been cancelled again this winter.

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The decision follows four consecutive years of cancellations because of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and 2022 and insufficient ice conditions on the canal in 2023 and 2024.

“We are deeply disappointed to make this decision,” said John Brooman, the festival’s CEO, in an online announcement.

“The Ottawa Ice Dragon Boat Festival has always celebrated winter, community spirit, and cultural connection. However, the safety and viability of the event must come first.”

According to the announcement made online, the ongoing challenges related to climate conditions means the required ice thickness cannot be guaranteed for 2025.

“We get teams from all over the world that can’t do ice racing in dragon boats,” said chair Warren Creates.

“This year, it …