And every year, people, families, and supporters from all over the Las Vegas Valley and beyond come out to cheer for this great tradition and worthy cause during the Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival.
Rooted in ancient Chinese culture, dragon boat racing has evolved into a thrilling way to unite communities, promote health, and fund vital breast cancer services in Southern Nevada.
The Rose Regatta is a family-friendly event with a healthy dose of competition. If you’re looking for a cultural event with meaningful community impact, you won’t want to miss The Rose Regatta. So, without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about this feel-good festival.
What Is the Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival?
The Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival is an annual lake event held at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nevada. This exhilarating festival features dragon boat races, where teams of paddlers compete in long, narrow boats adorned with dragon heads and tails.
But it’s more than just a race—this festival raises funds for the R.E.D. (Responsible Early Detection) Rose Program at Dignity Health – St. Rose Dominican. Proceeds support breast health screenings, education, and services for underserved women in the region.
The Rose Regatta brings together competitive paddlers, novice racers, corporate teams, breast cancer survivors, and families—creating a strong, supportive community built around health, wellness, and cultural celebration.
Dragon Boat Racing: A Journey Through History
Why is the Rose Regatta so meaningful to its participants? To understand that, we must first explore the cultural origins of dragon boat racing.
This sport began in China more than 2,000 years ago, rooted in the legend of poet Qu Yuan. Today, dragon boat racing is a global phenomenon that combines physical endurance, teamwork, and community spirit.
The Rose Regatta honors this ancient tradition with a distinctly American, philanthropic twist.
When and Where Is the Rose Regatta?
Location: Lake Las Vegas, Henderson, Nevada
Typical Time of Year: October (Check the official event website for exact dates and details)
Set against the tranquil waters and desert landscapes of Lake Las Vegas, the festival offers a resort-style ambiance. It’s the perfect setting for an event that’s both high-energy and deeply personal.
Race Day: What to Expect
Dragon Boat Races
The main event, of course, is the dragon boat racing. Throughout the day, teams race in heats, paddling in sync with a drummer’s beat. Categories include:
- Community teams
- Corporate teams
- Breast cancer survivor teams
- Mixed and women’s teams
Each boat typically holds around 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer. The energy and visual spectacle make the races incredibly exciting to watch.
Festival Activities
Beyond the races, festival-goers can enjoy:
- Food trucks and vendor booths
- Live entertainment and music
- Cultural performances
- Children’s activities
- Health and wellness booths
Whether you’re competing, cheering, or just enjoying a family day out, there’s something for everyone at the Rose Regatta.
Supporting a Life-Saving Cause
At the heart of the Rose Regatta is the mission to raise funds for breast health services in Southern Nevada. Proceeds benefit the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation, supporting early detection and treatment of breast cancer.
Attendees include survivors, caregivers, and supporters. The atmosphere is both celebratory and deeply moving.
You’re not just attending a festival—you’re helping save lives.
How to Participate
Form a Team
No experience? No problem. Forming a team is easy and great for:
- Corporate team-building
- School groups
- Fitness clubs
- Friends and families
- Survivor groups
Teams receive training before race day, so everyone feels prepared and confident.
Volunteer
Not racing? Volunteer instead! The festival welcomes help with event logistics, registration, team support, and more. It’s a great way to get involved and support the cause.
Sponsor the Event
Sponsorship is a meaningful way for businesses—local or national—to give back. Packages often include marketing exposure, race entry, and community engagement opportunities.
Come Join the 15th Annual Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival
Whether you’re a Henderson local, from Las Vegas, or just visiting the area, the Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival is a unique blend of culture, competition, and compassion. Here’s why you should mark your calendar:
- Support breast cancer awareness and health services
- Enjoy a fun, family-friendly atmosphere
- Celebrate cultural traditions and community unity
- Experience the beauty of Lake Las Vegas
- Be inspired by survivor stories and team spirit
Travel Tips for Visitors
If you’re heading to Henderson for the Rose Regatta, make the most of your stay:
Accommodations
- The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa – Luxury lakeside comfort
- Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa – Another relaxing resort option
- Downtown Henderson – More budget-friendly options just a short drive away
Dining
Nearby local favorites include:
- Luna Rossa Ristorante – Scenic lake views and Italian cuisine
- Sonrisa Grill – Tasty Mexican dishes and great margaritas
- Bellalinda Gelateria Italiana – Perfect for a sweet treat post-race
The Rose Regatta Dragon Boat Festival is a powerful blend of sport, culture, and hope. It brings together people from all walks of life to paddle, cheer, and fundraise for an incredible cause.
Whether you’re racing, supporting someone, or simply soaking up the festive vibe—you’ll leave inspired by the strength and unity on display.
