The Las Colinas Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a boat race – it’s a celebration of culture, family, and community. Located in the heart of Irving, Texas, it’s the perfect setting for a high-energy, cultural celebration rooted in ancient Chinese history and modern-day fun. From experienced paddlers to curious first-timers and those who simply love cultural festivals, the Dragon Boat Festival offers something for everyone.
What Is the Dragon Boat Festival?
The Dragon Boat Festival (also known as the Duanwu Festival, the Double Fifth, the Tuen Ng Festival, or Chinese Memorial Day) is a traditional Chinese holiday with a history of over 2,000 years. This centuries-old celebration honors the poet and minister Qu Yuan, with the central activity being races of long, narrow boats adorned with dragon designs, all synchronized to the rhythmic beat of drums.
Though it originated in China, the festival has grown in popularity across the globe—especially in North America. Events like the one in Las Colinas, Texas, help preserve this rich cultural heritage and promote the values of diversity and inclusion in society.
About the Las Colinas Dragon Boat Festival
One of North Texas’s Premier Events
The Las Colinas Dragon Boat Festival, a fall celebration, highlights the cultural diversity of the Dallas–Fort Worth community. Sponsored by the Texas Dragon Boat Association, the event attracts hundreds of paddlers (with over 100 per team) and thousands of attendees each year.
Held on the scenic Lake Carolyn in Las Colinas, the festival features spirited dragon boat races, vibrant cultural performances, and a variety of mouthwatering cuisine—making it a fun experience for the whole family!
Exciting Dragon Boat Races
Naturally, the main attraction is the dragon boat racing. Crews of up to 20 paddlers compete in vividly decorated boats featuring dragon heads and tails. Races are typically 200 or 500 meters long and include:
- Community Teams – Businesses, schools, and nonprofits from the local area
- Corporate Groups – Teams focused on relationship building and wellness
- Competitive Teams – Athletes who train and travel for races year-round
The synchronized paddling, pounding drumbeats, and cheers from spectators create a thrilling, high-energy spectacle.
Cultural Performances
Celebrate diversity with a dynamic program of live performances representing various Asian cultures. Past performances have included:
- Chinese lion and dragon dances
- Korean drum ensembles
- Vietnamese fan dances
- Tinikling (Philippines bamboo dance)
- Japanese Taiko drumming
These performances offer attendees a chance to experience the vibrant cultural mosaic of the Asian American community in Texas.
International Eats and Food Trucks
No great festival is complete without amazing food! The Las Colinas Dragon Boat Festival features a food court offering global flavors, including:
- Chinese dumplings and bao
- Korean BBQ and kimchi fries
- Vietnamese pho and banh mi
- Thai curries
- Japanese sushi and takoyaki
- Bubble tea, shaved ice, and other Asian treats
Local food trucks also gather around the event grounds, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Activities
This is a family-friendly festival with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained, such as:
- Face painting
- Arts and crafts booths
- Cultural storytelling
- Interactive workshops
- Inflatable play zones
The event is both fun and educational, making it an ideal family outing.
Why Attend the Las Colinas Dragon Boat Festival?
- Celebrate Cultural Diversity
Promoting cross-cultural understanding is one of the festival’s core goals. Attend the festival not just for the excitement, but to experience the customs, languages, foods, and dances from across Asia—right in the heart of Texas.
- Support Local Communities
The event provides a platform for local nonprofits, small businesses, and cultural groups to showcase their work. Support the community by shopping from vendors or donating to participating charities.
- A Great Team-Building Opportunity
For businesses, this is a unique way to encourage teamwork, wellness, and leadership. Many companies form corporate teams to build camaraderie in a high-energy and competitive environment.
How to Participate
Join a Team
No prior experience is needed to join a dragon boat team. Local organizations often host training sessions and open practices leading up to the festival. Each team typically includes:
- 20 paddlers
- 1 drummer (to maintain rhythm)
- 1 steerer (usually provided by the organizer)
Sign up early—spots fill up quickly!
Volunteer
Not racing? Get involved as a volunteer. Roles include:
- Event setup and logistics
- Registration support
- Safety marshals
- Cultural event coordination
- Eco-friendly clean-up crew
Volunteering is a great way to be part of the action and connect with others who share your passion.
Become a Sponsor or Vendor
Businesses are encouraged to become event sponsors or join as food and craft vendors. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with a lively, diverse crowd of thousands of local attendees.
When and Where
- Event Date: Typically held in September or October
- Location: Lake Carolyn, 501 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX
- Admission: Free for the public; team registration fees apply
For the latest schedule and registration details, visit the Texas Dragon Boat Association’s website or check out their social media pages.
Travel and Parking Tips
- Parking: Nearby garages and lots are available—arrive early for the best spots
- Public Transit: Accessible via DART Light Rail (Las Colinas Urban Center Station)
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, foldable chairs, water bottles, and cash for vendors
- Pet Policy: Leashed pets are generally welcome, but check ahead to confirm
The Dragon Boat, Kite & Lantern Festival in Las Colinas is more than just an action-packed sporting event—it’s a vibrant, inclusive celebration of community and culture. Whether you’re racing on the water, sampling international foods, or enjoying live performances, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for diversity.
