Help Us Paddle Fast !
We are excited to announce that our team will be participating in the 2026 New Haven Dragon Boat Festival, a thrilling event that celebrates teamwork, community spirit, and friendly competition.
We are reaching out to seek your support as a sponsor for our team.
Your sponsorship would not only help cover essential expenses such as:
Equipment rental
Registration fees
Team shirts
Provide valuable exposure for your brand at a well-attended community event.
By partnering with us, you will help promote health, teamwork, and cultural appreciation while gaining visibility among a diverse audience. We would be honored to display your logo on our team shirts and promotional materials, and to acknowledge your support in all our communications.
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 New Haven Community Boating/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.
Registration & Fees
Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: New Haven Community Boating / Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT
Questions? Contact us at ctdragons@canaldock.org
Team Divisions & Requirements
Choose the division that best fits your team:
Women
Open
Mixed (Minimum of 10 women)
Team Composition: Each team consists of 20 paddlers (16 minimum required to race), 1 drummer, and up to 3 alternates.
️Team Registration
Registration fees include one practice session, the race, and a full day of fun!
Practice Sessions - One-Hour Sessions
After registration and payment, a link will be send to book your practice.
Dates: Thursday, June 4 – Friday, June 5, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: New Haven Community Boating/Canal Dock Boathouse
Individual Registration
Want to paddle but don't have a team? No problem! Reach out to us at ctdragons@canaldock.org and we will help get you on the water.
Race Day Logistics
Event Location
New Haven Community Boating/Canal Dock Boathouse, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT
Parking: Free parking is available nearby, but carpooling is encouraged.
Race Day Timeline (tentative)
TimeActivity 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.
