Tradition, teamwork, and generosity run as deep as the waters of East Tennessee during the KARM Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place each year. Thousands of spectators and participants come together to enjoy this exciting race and raise money for Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM)—a non-profit organization helping to restore lives in the Knoxville community. Drawing on the centuries-old tradition of dragon boat racing and the ancient waters of Sai Kung, this festival is one of the area’s premier summertime events.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, interested in culture, or just want to show your community spirit, the KARM Dragon Boat Festival has something for everyone.
What Is the KARM Dragon Boat Festival?
The KARMstores Dragon Boat Festival is an annual fundraiser featuring intense dragon boat racing, cultural performances, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment. Hosted by Knox Area Rescue Ministries, the event raises funds to support the organization’s mission to offer emergency services and long-term programs for the homeless and those struggling with addiction in Knoxville and the surrounding counties.
Inspired by the classical Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing, this contemporary festival blends East Asian heritage with a very local cause. Teams race in long, elaborately carved dragon boats, with 20 paddlers rowing in unison, led by a drummer and a steersperson.
When and Where Is It?
The KARM Dragon Boat Festival usually takes place in late summer—September is often ideal—at beautiful Concord Park in Knoxville, Tennessee. Located on the shores of Fort Loudoun Lake, the park provides the perfect venue for the races and the celebration surrounding them.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, sunscreen, and an appetite for adventure—and delicious food from local vendors. Spectator admission is free, making it the perfect family or group day trip.
The Dragon Boat Tradition in Modern China
Dragon boat racing has a history of over 2,000 years in China. It commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a beloved Chinese poet and statesman. Exiled for political reasons, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River. Villagers paddled out in boats to try to save him—or retrieve his body—while beating drums and throwing rice into the water to distract fish and ward off evil spirits. This act of mourning and remembrance gave rise to today’s Dragon Boat Festival, which is still celebrated in China and around the world.
Dragon boating has since become an internationally recognized sport, demanding focus, commitment, and unity—values that directly align with KARM’s mission.
More Than a Race: The Festival’s Mission
The most unique aspect of the KARM Dragon Boat Festival is its purpose. Unlike most sports events, the goal isn’t just to win on the water—it’s to help others win in life.
The festival is a major fundraiser for KARM, supporting essential programs such as:
- Food and shelter for individuals and families in crisis
- Nutritious meals served daily
- Life-change and recovery programs
- Job search training and workforce reintegration
By creating or joining a team, participants directly support these life-saving efforts.
How Teams Get Involved
Teams can be formed by anyone wanting to participate. Companies, churches, health clubs, schools, and groups of friends sign up months in advance. Each team pledges to raise a set amount of funds for KARM.
Teams receive:
- Professional training before race day
- A designated tented area at the event
- Use of boats, paddles, and life jackets
- Trophies awarded for speed, fundraising, and team spirit
It’s competitive and fast-paced, but camaraderie and purpose are at the heart of every stroke.
Things to Do for the Family and Entertainment
The KARM Dragon Boat Festival is more than a paddling competition—it’s a community-wide celebration. Spectators can enjoy:
- Cultural dance performances and live music
- Food trucks offering Asian-inspired fare
- Kids’ zones with face painting, games, and inflatables
- Prizes, giveaways, and sponsor activations
It’s a great opportunity for families to learn about Asian culture while contributing to a local cause.
The KARM Dragon Boat Festival and Why You Should Go
- Support a Worthy Cause
Every dollar raised goes directly to helping Knoxville’s homeless and underserved become self-sufficient. Your presence—whether as a racer or a supporter—matters. - Experience Cultural Heritage
From the striking dragon boats to the rhythmic drums and traditional music, this event offers a vibrant cultural experience and a sense of shared community. - Engage in a Unique Fitness Sport
Dragon boating is a high-intensity team sport that promotes coordination, strength, and unity. It’s also one of the rare sports where people of all ages and fitness levels can compete side-by-side. - Connect With the Community
Local businesses, nonprofits, and civic groups use the event to network and unite around a shared cause—improving the well-being of the region.
How to Register or Donate
To participate, visit the official KARM website or the specific event page at karm.org/dragonboats for information on registration, sponsorship, and donations. Early registration typically includes training and promotional materials to help teams fundraise successfully.
If paddling isn’t for you, consider donating to a team, becoming a corporate sponsor, or volunteering on event day.
The Ripple: Real Stories of Change
Funds raised by the KARM Dragon Boat Festival are not swallowed by overhead—they directly support transformative programs. Hundreds of men and women have escaped addiction, found employment, and rebuilt relationships because of this event.
Many return year after year—not just as spectators, but as volunteers or racers—living proof of what compassion and community can achieve.
The KARM Dragon Boat Festival is more than just fun on the water—it’s a powerful statement of what a united community can accomplish. Combining sport, culture, and philanthropy, it fills a special place in Tennessee’s summer calendar, growing in impact each year.
Whether you’re paddling, donating, or cheering from the shore, you’re helping KARM—one paddle stroke, one race, and one life at a time.
