12th Annual Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival

Charitable Partner: Adaptive Adventures

Attendance: 1,000 participants / 1,000 spectators

On-site Festivities: Health & Wellness Zone, Athletes’ Village, Vendor Village, Beer Garden (TBD), Food Trucks, Asian Cultural Expo & Performance Stage

Sport Division (2x200m, 2x500m): Mixed, Women’s, Open, BCP, ACP, Paradragons

Community Division (3x500m): Mixed, Women’s, Open

The Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival returns to Ned Brown Preserve (Busse Woods), Elk Grove Illinois on Saturday, July 26th, 2025. This event brings together culture, sport and international flavors that blend a 2,500-year-old tradition with the fun and excitement of an outdoor festival. This event proudly supports Adaptive Adventures.

Twenty paddlers move in unison, combining strength and teamwork in a boat whose elaborate design originates from ancient China. Social groups and businesses alike embrace the sport because it builds camaraderie, forms connections and promotes healthy lifestyles.

Admission to this family-friendly event is free; races will begin at 8:30am and will continue throughout the day. Festival grounds will offer a variety of activities for all participants and spectators. Experience the Asian Cultural Expo, wander through the Health & Wellness Village featuring exciting products and services to assist in leading a healthy lifestyle. Grab a bite from one of our Food Trucks, enjoy a cold beverage in the Beer Garden (TBC), or shop in the Marketplace.

New teams and individuals are welcome! Invite friends, family, colleagues - form a group of 16 to 25 people and sign-up a team today. If you or a couple of friends are interested, there is a pay per seat option available, contact us at [email protected] to join.

Get in on the action – ask us how to get involved!

For more information, visit www.gwndragonboat.com/chicago

Host or Publisher GWN Dragon Boat