Emden Rund – Dragon Boat Long Distance Regatta and Lantern Parade
One of Germany's most spectacular dragon boat long-distance regattas through Emden's city canal (Green Hell)
About Emden Rund
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The Green Hell of Dragon Boat Sport
While most dragon boat races take place on straight sprint courses or open waters, Emden Rund is unique: the course leads all the way through the narrow, historic city canal of the port city. 17 turns, narrow passages, and around six bridges to cross make the regatta a highly complex competition that places the highest demands on helmsmen and crews. Experienced teams from all over Germany and neighboring countries participate in the race annually.
Lantern Parade as a Kick-off
On the evening before the regatta, traditionally on Friday at 7:30 PM, the lantern parade takes place: a parade of illuminated dragon boats moves through the city canal, providing a atmospheric start to the event. The lantern parade attracts numerous spectators along the promenade and is considered a secret highlight for onlookers.
Race and Atmosphere
The regatta on Saturday is raced with 20 paddlers per boat. Due to the narrow course, starts are staggered in several heats. The scoring system takes into account both individual time and clean navigation of the turns. Following the races, the regatta party will take place at the Kesselschleuse boathouse starting at 7:30 PM.
Participants 2026
As in previous years, the registration list for 2026 is already fully booked; the maximum number of participants set by the Emder Ruderverein has been reached, according to preliminary reports. Spectators can follow the race free of charge from the promenade.
Emden Rund — edition 2026
The program follows the established two-day schedule: kick-off with the lantern parade on Friday evening, followed by races, awards, and party on Saturday. The course through the city canal offers spectators along the promenade excellent views of the boats.
The event is considered a sporting highlight at the end of the dragon boat season and is well-known regionally in the North German scene. Registrations for 2026 are no longer possible according to the organizers; individual last-minute spots only become available due to short-notice cancellations.
Programme Emden Rund 2026
The 2026 program is confirmed via the organizer's websites:
- Friday, 18.09.2026, from 7:30 PM – Lantern Parade through the city canal (illuminated boat parade)
- Saturday, 19.09.2026, morning – Opening and first race heats
- Saturday, afternoon – Main races on the Green Hell course (17 turns, 6 bridges)
- Saturday, late afternoon – Award ceremony
- Saturday, from 7:30 PM – Regatta Party at Kesselschleuse Boathouse
Detailed start lists and schedules will be published on drachenboot-fighters.de and emderruderverein.de.
Highlights Emden Rund 2026
- One of the most spectacular dragon boat long distances in Germany
- Course through Emden's city canal: 17 turns, 6 bridges (Green Hell)
- Lantern Parade on Friday evening as an illuminated kick-off
- Regatta Party at Kesselschleuse Boathouse
- Free admission, viewing opportunities along the promenade
Prices Emden Rund 2026
Practical information — Emden Rund
Date 2026
- Friday, September 18, 2026 from 7:30 PM – Lantern Parade
- Saturday, September 19, 2026 – Dragon Boat Long Distance Regatta
- Saturday from 7:30 PM – Regatta Party at Kesselschleuse Boathouse
Location
- Emden City Canal
- Kesselschleuse Boathouse
- 26721 Emden, East Frisia
Admission
- Free admission for spectators
- Registration 2026 already closed (maximum participant number reached)
Organizer
- Emder Ruderverein
- Website: emderruderverein.de
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Emden Rund al mejor precio.
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