Denver, Colorado, is probably not the first place that comes to mind when you think of Dragon Boat Festivals, but the annual Denver Dragon Boat Festival is a colorful and spirited event held on the banks of Sloan’s Lake that draws thousands of participants and spectators. It’s a celebration of Asian culture and community, and of course, the exhilarating sport of dragon boat racing. Whether you’ve lived in Denver for years or are just stopping by, here’s what you need to know about the Denver Dragon Boat Festival.
What is the Denver Dragon Boat Festival?
The Denver Dragon Boat Festival is an event in Denver, Colorado, that celebrates Asian heritage and culture. It is a free, family-oriented event that includes dragon boat races, cultural performances, food vendors, artisan markets, and educational exhibits. It was a great chance to sample the diverse range of Asian traditions and to mix with the local community.
What to Add to the Festival:
- Dragon Boat Races: Arguably the highlight of the festival is the dragon boat races. These thrilling races feature teams from all over the region paddling in unison to the beat of a drummer. The races are rapid and exhilarating to watch, as teams battle for the title of champion.
- Cultural Performances: The festival stage is alive with cultural performances showcasing everything from traditional Chinese lion dances to taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations, and contemporary Asian-American music and dance.
- Asian Cuisine Food Vendors: Enjoy an assortment of Asian food from a range of different food vendors. There are savory dumplings, flavorful noodles, refreshing boba tea, and exotic desserts. Your taste buds are in for a culinary journey!
- Artisan Marketplace: The artisan shops are a thumping spot to score unique handcrafted items, traditional artwork, and cultural souvenirs related to Middle Eastern art. It’s a great chance to support local artists and buy a part of Asian heritage.
- Educational Exhibits: Explore the history and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival through informative exhibitions and demonstrations. Learn all about the legend of Qu Yuan, the meaning of the dragon boats, and the cultural traditions that surround this important holiday.
- Family Activities: The Denver Dragon Boat Festival features lots of free arts and crafts, games, and interactive exhibits for kids. It’s also an excellent way to introduce children to Asian culture and traditions.
Going to the Denver Dragon Boat Festival: Tips
- Check the Schedule: Visit the official festival website to check the schedule of events and plan your visit accordingly.
- Get There Early: The festival can be crowded, especially on weekends. Plan to get there early if you want to have a good view of the races and acts.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will walk a lot, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Sunscreen and Hat: You are going to need something to protect yourself from the sun, so bring sunscreen and a hat.
- Stay hydrated: drink a lot of water throughout the day.
- Bring Cash: Some vendors might take credit cards, but it’s always better to bring cash.
- Be Courteous: The Denver Dragon Boat Festival is a celebration of Asian culture. Show respect for whatever traditions and customs you encounter.
Why you should come to the Denver Dragon Boat Festival
The Denver Dragon Boat Festival is not just a festival; it’s a cultural event. This is an opportunity to learn more about Asian heritage, connect with the greater community, and have a day of fun and excitement. From the pros to the newbies, we know this one will stick with you long after the last paddle has passed.
So, save the date to experience the magic of the Denver Dragon Boat Festival!
Policy Watch: Dragon Boat Festival 2025
The Dragon Boat Festival in 2025 falls on May 31st, 2025. The Dragon Boat Festival takes place on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, usually around late May or June of the Gregorian calendar.
Great for both attendees who wish to get into the action and those who simply want to keep track of what’s in store for the next coming events. Head over to this link for registration, schedule, and plenty more!
