Made possible by the generosity of our sponsors: 
         

Ancient Spirit. Modern Glory.

Welcome to the New Haven Dragon Boat Festival

Where 2,000 years of tradition meets the adrenaline of the harbor.

Join us at the Canal Dock Boathouse for New Haven’s most electrifying waterfront event. Experience the thunder of the drums, the splash of the paddles, and the fierce camaraderie of dragon boat racing.

🌏 A Global Phenomenon, Right Here in New Haven

Dragon boating is no longer just a legend; it is a global movement. Since the "Modern Era" began with the 1976 Hong Kong International Races, the sport has exploded into a vibrant, independent discipline.

By joining us, you become part of a massive global community:

• 50 Million participants across China.

• 300,000+ paddlers in the UK and Europe.

• 90,000+ enthusiasts in North America.

• Thousands more competing from Australia to the Caribbean.

Now, it’s New Haven’s turn to paddle.

📜 The Legend Behind the Race

The Dragon Boat Festival (the "Double Fifth") is steeped in history. It originated over two millennia ago to honor Qu Yuan, a poet and patriot who drowned himself to protest imperial corruption.

Legend says villagers rushed out in boats, thrashing their paddles to scare away fish and protect his body. Today, we honor that spirit of protection and perseverance.

• The Rituals: Traditionally, parents tied five threads of colored silk to children to ward off evil spirits, and families shared Zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in bamboo) and Realgar wine to fight off misfortune.

• The Race: We continue the tradition of "thrashing the water"—but today, we do it for gold, glory, and team pride.

[Download the Sponsor Prospectus]

Volunteers

Volunteers make this event possible. See what positions are open and sign up here.

[Volunteer Signup  TBD]

Registration & Fees

The 2026 Dragon Boat Festival is your chance to experience the ultimate team-building challenge while enjoying a fun-filled day on the water.

Event Details

Individual Registration

[Individual Registration]

Team Registration

Fee: $2,000 per team (includes a professionally coached 1-hour practice session, at least 2-3 races, and use of all necessary equipment)
[Register Online Today].

Team Requirements

Divisions

• Women
• Open
• Mixed (minimum of 6 women)

How to Register

️ Practice Sessions

Secure your spot early – team spaces are limited! [Register Your Team NOW] !

Race Day Logistics

Event Location

Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT
Parking: Free parking is available nearby, but carpooling is encouraged.

Race Day Timeline (tentative)

Time	Activity
7:00 AM	Check-in & Team Set-up
7:30 AM	Team Captain’s Meeting
8:00 AM	First Heats Begin
11:00 AM	Semi-Finals
12:00 PM	Championship Races
12:30 PM	Awards Ceremony & Celebrations

Race Format

• Sprint races: 200-250 meters (lasting 1-2 minutes)
• Each team competes in at least 2 races
• Professional steerspersons will be provided for all boats

Team Area & What to Bring

• Water bottle (hydration is key!)
• Sunscreen & hat (protect yourself from the sun)
• Waterproof shoes/sandals
• Windbreaker/splash jacket (weather can change quickly)
• 10’x10’ pop-up tent for shade
• Folding chairs & blankets
• Cooler with water & snacks
• Team t-shirts, decorations, and spirit gear!

Prohibited Items:

• No pets (service animals only)
• No grills (gas, charcoal, or electric)
• No alcohol until your races are done

Safety Guidelines

Dragon boat racing is an exciting, high-energy sport, but safety is our top priority.
All participants must follow these guidelines:

General Safety Rules

• Life Jackets Are Mandatory: Every paddler must wear a properly fastened U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times.
• No Alcohol or Drugs: Any paddler suspected of being under the influence will be disqualified.
• Age Restrictions: No children under 16 years old on boats.
• Medical Conditions: If you have asthma, epilepsy, heart conditions, or any other medical concerns, notify your team captain before race day.

On-the-Water Safety

• Do Not Stand in the Boat – Stay seated to avoid capsizing.
• Capsize Protocol:
• Stay with the boat and perform a headcount.
• Listen to the Boat Captain’s instructions before retrieving paddles.
• If directed, swim to the nearest shore or rescue vessel.

Key Commands Every Paddler Must Know

• "Brace the Boat" – Hold paddle flat on water to stabilize the boat.
• "Hold the Boat" – Stop paddling immediately.
• "Back Paddle" – Reverse direction.
• "Let it Ride" – Stop paddling and let the boat glide.

First Aid Support:

• Trained medical personnel will be onsite throughout the event.

Paddling & Racing Tips

Dragon boat racing is about teamwork, endurance, and rhythm. Follow these tips to get race-ready!

The 6 Key Stroke Phases are:

1. Rotation: Engage your core and twist your torso.
2. Extension: Reach forward for maximum stroke length.
3. Catch: Drop the paddle straight into the water.
4. Pull: Use your back muscles, not just arms.
5. Exit: Remove the paddle when it reaches your hip.
6. Recovery: Reset and prepare for the next stroke.

Winning Race Strategies

• Strong Start: 6 deep strokes, followed by 20 power strokes.
• Stay in Sync: Follow the lead paddlers – synchronization is key!
• Power 10s: A 10-stroke burst in the last third of the race gives a final push.