Christchurch River Pageant 2026

Well what a day it turned out to be, the sun shone, the people came.

Tuckton Tea Gardens offered a wealth of tea, coffee, lunches and snacks and was well stocked with ice cream throughout the day.

Christchurch Mayor, Cllr. Maggie Fidler, and Bournemouth Mayor, Cllr. Roberto Rocco welcomed everyone to the event.

Chris Knight from the Boscombe and Southbourne Rotary Club took on the mantle of organiser this year and, after a lot of hard work and organisation, the pageant arrived in all its glory with performances from Dragon of the South (dancing dragons), including a new young member in the pink dragon costume, and a repertoire of music and sea shanties from Perfect Storm Duo. All the SUPs (stand-up paddle boards), small boats, rafts, kayaks and canoes floated off down the River Stour in a parade along with two majestic dragon boats. It was a joy to see with lots of pirates, mermaids and other people in fancy dress. This is the second year, and the new revitalised river pageant was a great success. Chris and his team did us proud.

The pageant has been raising much needed funds for three charities that all operate along the River Stour:

1. Hengistbury Head Outdoors Centre, having just been completely refurbished. This fantastic centre operates wellness classes alongside sailing and much more. This is a community based project.
2. Pink Champagne, based at Hengistbury Head, is a team for ladies and gents who have had breast cancer. They offer a place in their boat for recuperation, support and exercise.
3. Bourne Water Dragons are based at Iford Rugby Fields and offer support to both males and females who have had any type of cancer and wish to build strength whilst having fun.

An auction was held at Hengistbury Head. Prizes included:

• A Dragon Boat Experience for two
• Beach hut hire for the day
• Inflatable canoe
• Comedy Club Night tickets
• Personal Training sessions
• And many more

Our thanks go to everyone that made the donations for the Auction.  All donations and auction money will be split between the three groups enabling them to carry on the great works they provide.  

Roll on next years event.