The North Esk Dragon Boat Club will host the festival on Saturday, March 22, which will feature clubs from across the state - competing in club and corporate races.

Festival organiser Kelly Broomhall said the Taiko drummers, a Chinese lion dance and Bhutanese dancers would provide pre-race entertainment.

``Entry is free for the public on the Seaport boardwalk,'' she said.

``Dragon boat racing combines tradition with modern teamwork, enthusiasm and strategy.''

She said accredited sweeps would steer corporate boats and each boat would consist of 10-plus paddlers and a drummer so they can keep time.

``It will be a fun day and we definitely also see it as a chance to show off our sport and recruit more paddlers to our club,'' she said.

FACT FILE

WHAT: Tasmanian Dragon Boat Festival.

WHEN: Saturday, March 22, from 3pm to 6pm.

WHERE: Seaport Boardwalk.

ENTRY: Free.