Dragon boat racing has taken off in the United States, combining a rich cultural tradition with teamwork and adrenaline-filled competition. As we celebrate the anticipated return to normalcy and the world discovers more about this ancient tradition in 2025—both old and new—we can look forward to the successful festivals that will follow. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a curious bystander, these events provide memorable experiences.
AAPI Heritage & Dragon Boat Festival – Dallas, TX
Date: May 18, 2025
Where: The Bath House Cultural Center at White Rock Lake
Register at: dallasculture.org
Celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a family-friendly festival in Dallas that blends cultural celebration and dragon boat racing. Enjoy live music, interactive workshops, art installations, food vendors, and of course—the highlight—exciting dragon boat races! Whether you want to get out on the water or watch from the sidelines, this festival has something for everyone.
FREE admission—come one, come all! Due to the popularity of the event, parking is limited. Attendees are encouraged to carpool or use alternative transportation.
Sarasota International Dragon Boat Festival – Sarasota, FL
Date: May 10, 2025
Where: Nathan Benderson Park
Presented by: VO2MAX Challenge 2025
More info: usdbf.org
Set in the beautiful Nathan Benderson Park, this festival welcomes both competitive and recreational teams. The event features 200m, 500m, and an exciting 2k pursuit for sport division teams. Community teams will go head-to-head in multiple 500m races throughout the day.
In addition to the races, visit the Health and Wellness Village offering products and services that promote a healthy lifestyle. Spectators will enjoy the thrill of competition while learning about the sport and exploring fun ground activities.
Dragon Boat Festival – Lake Champlain, Burlington, VT
Dates: August 2–3, 2025
Where: Lake Champlain Waterfront
More info: usdbf.org
This community-focused event also supports cancer survivors through the excitement of dragon boat racing. The festival includes three divisions: Community Teams, Breast Cancer Paddlers, and Sport Teams. Racing for Breast Cancer and Sport teams begins on August 2 at noon, with all divisions racing on August 3.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Champlain, this event offers something for both athletes and spectators.
Club Crew National Championships (CCNC) – Sarasota-Bradenton, FL
Dates: October 16–19, 2025
Location: Nathan Benderson Park
More info: usdbf.org
The CCNC showcases North America’s top teams competing for berths in the 2026 IDBF Club Crew World Championships. Sanctioned by the United States Dragon Boat Federation (USDBF), this is the premier event of its kind.
New for 2025: the Senior D series debuts! This event is a must-attend for serious paddlers seeking international recognition.
Release the Dragons – Sarasota, FL
Dates: January 22–25, 2025
Where: Nathan Benderson Park
More info: usdbf.org
This event is dedicated to All Cancer Paddlers (ACP) and Breast Cancer Paddlers (BCP) and features two full days of paddling and leadership clinics for team leaders. It fosters connection, education, and long-lasting friendships among cancer survivor paddlers.
Open to individual paddlers—embracing community and inclusivity.
What to Expect at a Dragon Boat Festival
There’s more to dragon boat festivals than racing—they’re celebrations of culture, community, and camaraderie. These events also offer a unique opportunity to:
- Learn About the Culture: Discover the rich history and traditions of dragon boat racing.
- Get Involved with Team Building: Feel the exhilaration of unity and collaboration—even if you’re not racing.
- Give Back to the Community: Many festivals, such as the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival, support charitable causes.
- Family-Friendly Fun: With workshops, performances, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Preparing for the Festivals
If you plan to participate as a paddler:
- Running: Incorporate consistent cardiovascular and strength workouts a few times a week to build endurance and muscle.
- Interval Training: Train with a partner to simulate race-day intensity with chase-style intervals.
- Water Safety: Learn basic water safety and always wear proper gear.
For spectators:
- Be Prepared: Check the event schedule and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Hydrate: Bring water bottles—especially for events in warmer climates.
- Join the Fun: Explore workshops, vendor stalls, and all the entertainment the festival offers.
The Dragon Boat Festival Lineup in the U.S. for 2025 promises an unforgettable mix of competition, culture, and community. Whether you’re on the water or cheering from the shore, there’s something for everyone.
