June 29, 2026 - 194 views
St David’s Hospice has raised more than £22,000 following a successful Dragon Boat Festival held on Llyn Padarn in Llanberis, with organisers praising the “incredible spirit” of competitors, volunteers and supporters who turned out for the annual fundraising event.
The event, held on Saturday 20 June, saw local businesses, community groups and returning teams take to the water in brightly decorated dragon boats, racing along the course as spectators lined the shore to cheer them on.
The festival, which is one of the charity’s flagship fundraising events, combined competitive racing with a family-friendly atmosphere, featuring food stalls, entertainment, and activities throughout the day. Donations are still being counted, with organisers expecting the final total to rise further.
This year’s winners were Lyons Pendyffryn Holiday Park, who have taken part in the festival since 2025 and secured the top spot after a series of closely contested races.
A spokesperson for the team said the event had once again brought together staff, families and holidaymakers in support of a vital local cause.
They said: “A huge thank you to everyone who took part, supported the teams and helped raise money for St David’s Hospice. From early starts and team talks to cheering from the sidelines and celebrating back at the park, the atmosphere was incredible from start to finish.”
The festival is organised in support of St David’s Hospice, a North Wales charity providing specialist palliative and end-of-life care across Conwy, Gwynedd and Anglesey.
A spokesperson for the hospice thanked participants and sponsors, highlighting the importance of community fundraising in sustaining its services.
They said: “We are very grateful to all the teams for taking part and for their great spirits throughout the day. The amazing amount raised will make such a difference to our charity and we very much appreciate the support from all who contributed.”
The charity also acknowledged support from Cyngor Gwynedd, the Llanberis community, and event sponsor 4 Crosses Construction Ltd.
St David’s Hospice provides specialist care for more than 1,000 people each year across North Wales, offering inpatient and day therapy services alongside emotional and bereavement support. With only a small proportion of funding coming from statutory sources, the majority of its £5.2 million annual running costs are raised through community fundraising.
Organisers are now encouraging supporters to take part in future events as they continue to raise vital funds to support hospice care across the region.
