Whether you’re a first-time visitor, an athlete, or a connoisseur of cultural festivals, the Arizona Dragon Boat Festival has something for you. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this exciting event — its history, activities, how to get there, and what to expect in 2024.
What Is the Arizona Dragon Boat Festival?
The Arizona Dragon Boat Festival is an annual event held on Tempe Town Lake, just outside of Phoenix, Arizona. The festival commemorates the ancient Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing, which has evolved into a global sport. Hosted by the Arizona Dragon Boat Association (AZDBA), this colorful celebration features fast-paced water races, cultural performances, delicious food, and a strong sense of community pride.
The 2024 festival promises to be one of the largest yet, with over 70 teams from across North America and beyond participating. From corporate teams and community groups to elite paddling clubs — racers of all backgrounds and abilities will unite to race in long, dragon-headed boats powered by synchronized paddling and pure team spirit.
Dates and Location
- Date: March 23–24, 2024
- Location: Tempe Town Lake, Tempe Beach Park
- Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Tempe Town Lake’s outdoor setting is perfect for this two-day event, offering plenty of open space for spectators, food vendors, and cultural displays. It’s easily accessible from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and is near public transportation, hotels, and restaurants.
What to Expect in 2024
1. Dragon Boat Races
The heart of the festival lies in its races. Each boat features 20 paddlers, one drummer, and one steerer. Teams compete in various categories, including:
- Mixed teams
- Women’s teams
- Men’s teams
- Corporate and community teams
- Youth and collegiate teams
Each boat is decorated with a dragon’s head and tail, and races are typically between 200 and 500 meters. Watching these beautifully adorned vessels glide across the lake in rhythm with the drumbeats is truly unforgettable.
2. Cultural Performances & Exhibits
In addition to the thrilling races, the festival also includes:
- Traditional lion and dragon dances
- Martial arts demonstrations
- Cultural crafts and workshops
- Local food vendors offering Asian cuisine
The Arizona Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a sporting event — it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and Asian-American heritage.
3. Food and Vendors
Foodies will love the variety of Asian dishes and street food available — from Chinese dumplings and Vietnamese pho to Filipino barbecue and Japanese mochi. Vendors also sell handmade crafts, festival gear, and local specialties.
Why You Should Attend
Arizona Dragon Boat Festival 2024: More Than Just a Fun Weekend!
- Celebrate cultural diversity: The festival showcases Arizona’s vibrant Asian-American community and welcomes everyone.
- Feel the competitive energy: Whether paddling or cheering from the shore, the excitement is contagious.
- Support community causes: Many teams paddle for important causes like cancer survivorship, youth programs, and community development.
- Enjoy free admission: Spectator access is usually free, making this a fun and budget-friendly activity for families.
Tips for Attending the Arizona Dragon Boat Festival 2024
- Arrive early: Parking fills up quickly, especially Saturday morning. Consider carpooling or using public transportation.
- Bring sunscreen and water: The Arizona sun can be intense, even in March.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Expect a lot of walking around Tempe Beach Park.
- Explore Tempe: Check out the nearby Mill Avenue District for dining, nightlife, and shopping.
- Learn the history: Dragon boat racing dates back over 2,000 years to ancient China, honoring the poet and statesman Qu Yuan. Take a moment to appreciate the cultural roots of the tradition.
How to Participate
Want to do more than just watch? The Arizona Dragon Boat Association is always looking for new teams and individual paddlers. You can sign up as a team or register as a free agent. No experience? No problem — training sessions are provided in the weeks leading up to the event.
For more details, visit the AZDBA website for updated race categories, registration links, and training schedules.
Lodging and Travel
Tempe offers a variety of lodging options from budget hotels to upscale resorts. Popular choices include:
- Tempe Mission Palms
- Hyatt Place Tempe / Phoenix
- AC Hotel by Marriott Tempe Downtown
Booking early is recommended, especially if you’re attending both days or coming with a team. Tempe’s central location also makes it easy to visit nearby attractions such as Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden, and the Phoenix Zoo.
Arizona Dragon Boat Festival 2024: More Than Just a Race
Whether you’re paddling, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll be part of something memorable and meaningful.
Mark your calendar for March 23–24, 2024, and get ready for a vibrant weekend on the water — a true gem of Arizona’s festival scene.
