Welcome to the
N.e.w. Dragon boat festival
Welcome to the exhilarating Northeast Wisconsin Dragonboat Festival, an annual extravaganza celebrating culture, camaraderie, and competition. Drawing inspiration from centuries-old traditions, this festival unites teams from local and across the region to engage in the thrilling sport of dragon boat racing. Set against the picturesque backdrop of our
The event is now organized by Fox Valley Community Learning Center, in partnership with Northeast Wisconsin Chinese Association and the Fox Valley Dragon Boat Club. This large-scale multicultural community festival brings together businesses, schools, nonprofits, performers, families, and community members from across the Fox Valley through dragon boat racing, cultural celebration, food, arts, and educational experiences.
The festival serves as both a community celebration and a fundraising initiative supporting FVCLC’s mission to expand access to education, creativity, cultural understanding, and community connection throughout the region. As a highly visible community event centered around teamwork, inclusion, wellness, and cultural connection, the Dragon Boat Festival creates a unique opportunity for local organizations and businesses to demonstrate meaningful investment in the Fox Valley community.
scenic waterfront, participants and spectators alike can anticipate a mesmerizing display of synchronized paddling and unwavering teamwork. Everyone is invited! !!
Beyond the races, the N.E.W Dragonboat Festival embraces a vibrant cultural fair, complete with delectable cuisines, lively performances, and interactive exhibitions that pay homage to our rich heritage. The festival's lively atmosphere will forge lasting memories and fostering connections that transcend both time and tradition. Get ready to immerse yourself in the pulse-pounding energy of the N.E.W Dragonboat Festival!
MISSION
Celebrate the diverse communities of the Fox Cities
Welcome newcomers into this region
Promote social connectedness and belonging
Boost local economies
Goals
Become a destination event that attracts visitors to the Northeast WI Region
Expand the cultural experiences of community members
Create new connections among affinity groups (businesses, organizations and nonprofits)
Why focus on belonging?
Reverse population decline and strengthen community resiliency
Attract and retain talent to sustain a robust workforce
Foster a greater sense of trust and social cohesion among local government, businesses, nonprofits and those served
Dragon Boat History
Dragon boat racing has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Beginning in ancient China, this captivating sport has become a beloved tradition celebrated around the world. Legend has it that dragon boat racing can be traced back to the commemoration of Qu Yuan, a famous poet and political leader of ancient China. To honor his memory, locals would paddle out on boats, beat drums, and toss rice into the water to prevent fish from consuming his body.
Over time, dragon boat racing evolved from a solemn ritual into a spirited sporting event. Today, the sport is characterized by its distinct dragon-shaped boats, which are typically decorated with vibrant colors and ornate designs. Each boat has a team of paddlers, plus a drummer at the front and a steersperson at the rear. The drummer sets the rhythm and pace, while the steersperson guides the boat along the racecourse.
Dragon boat racing gained international popularity in the 1970s and has since grown into a competitive and inclusive sport. It was introduced to the world through the efforts of Hong Kong entrepreneur Stanley Kwan, who organized the first modern dragon boat race in 1976. Kwan's vision was to promote Chinese culture and foster international friendship through the sport. His initiative was met with great enthusiasm, leading to the establishment of dragon boat racing as a recognized sport in various countries.
Today, dragon boat racing is celebrated through vibrant festivals and regattas held worldwide. These events bring together teams from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the sport's inclusive nature. Spectators are treated to the thrilling spectacle of synchronized paddling, synchronized drumming, and fierce competition. Dragon boat races often feature multiple heats, leading to thrilling finals where teams battle it out for victory.
Dragon boat racing has not only become a symbol of teamwork, strength, and endurance but also a celebration of cultural heritage. In addition to the exhilarating races, festivals surrounding dragon boat racing are filled with traditional music, dance performances, and delicious food. This combination of sport and cultural festivities creates a unique and unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie within communities. The history and traditions of dragon boat racing continue to inspire and captivate people around the world, making it a cherished part of our global heritage.
Paddling Toward Healing
More than a race. A movement of strength.
Every year, the N.E.W. Dragon Boat Festival is proud to spotlight our Cancer Survivor Team Division.
Did you know that dragon boating for survivors started as a way to prove that "you can" when the world said "you can't"? Research shows that the teamwork and physical rhythm of the boat help survivors regain confidence, build strength, and find a community that paddles to the same beat.
We aren't just racing; we’re celebrating resilience. Whether you’re a survivor looking to join a team or a supporter ready to cheer from the shores of the Leach Amphitheater, come witness the power of the dragon!
Together, we paddle. Together, we heal.
