What Is the Memphis Dragon Boat Festival?

Boom! Boom! Boom!

The powerful rhythm of the drum echoes across the lake as the drummer sets the pace. Twenty paddlers move in perfect unison, slicing their paddles through the water with every beat, propelling a 46-foot dragon boat toward the finish line.

The energy is electric. The competition is fierce. The crowd roars.

You’ll hear the boom of the drum, the steerer calling commands, and the cheers of spectators as brightly colored dragon boats race neck-and-neck across the shimmering lake. Around the race course, the festival atmosphere comes alive with food trucks, children’s activities, music, performance and community celebration.

This is not your average fundraiser—it’s an unforgettable cultural festival and a thrilling sporting event all in one.

Where Is This Amazing Event?

📍 Hyde Lake, Shelby Farms Park

Memphis, Tennessee

Shelby Farms Park provides the perfect backdrop for this exciting event, with beautiful scenery and plenty of space for families, friends, and spectators to gather and celebrate.

When Does the Fun Begin?

The Memphis Dragon Boat Festival is an all-day celebration:

May 30 – Full day of dragon boat races, festival activities, food, and entertainment

Whether you’re racing, volunteering, or cheering from the shore, there’s excitement for everyone.

Why Are We Doing This?

The Memphis Dragon Boat Festival supports the Memphis Chinese Community Center, a nonprofit organization, under the leadership of Greater Memphis United Chinese Association, dedicated to community engagement, cultural exchange, and educational programs.

Every team that joins and every spectator who attends helps support programs that strengthen and enrich our community.

It’s a day of teamwork, culture, and celebration—all for a great cause.

Join the Celebration

Whether you’re forming a team, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply coming to enjoy the festival, the Memphis Dragon Boat Festival promises an unforgettable experience.

🚣‍♀️ Race with a team

🎉 Celebrate culture and community

🍜 Enjoy great food and entertainment

❤️ Support a meaningful cause

Come feel the rhythm of the drum, the excitement of the race, and the spirit of Memphis.

We’ll see you at the lake!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much is the registration fee?

Registration fees vary depending on whether you are registering as a team or an individual.

Youth ages 12–18 may participate for free when registered through a school team.

2026 Registration Fees:

• Early Bird (by March 31, 2026): $1,300/Team

• After March 31, 2026: $1,500/Team

• Early Bird: $65 per individual paddler

• Deadline for registration: May, 23rd

Sponsorship deadline: April 30th

2. How many paddlers are needed for a team?

A standard dragon boat team includes:

• 16, 18 or 20 paddlers plus 1 drummer
  
  

Teams work together to paddle in rhythm with the drum to power the boat across the water.

3. What if I don’t have enough people to form a full team?

No problem! If your group does not have enough members for a full team, the festival organizers will assign you to a team, giving you a chance to meet new friends and enjoy the experience together.

4. Do I need to know how to swim?

Swimming ability is helpful but not required.

• All paddlers will be provided with life jackets.
  
  

• Licensed lifeguards will be on duty throughout the event to ensure everyone’s safety.
  
  

5. Will there be training or practice before race day?

Yes! Professional coaches from the boat rental company will provide:

• Safety instructions

• Proper paddling techniques

• Team practice sessions
  
  

Each team will receive approximately one hour of practice either on Thursday or Friday, depending on team scheduling.

6. Is the festival safe to attend?

Absolutely. Safety is a top priority.

The event will be supported by law enforcement officers from the Shelby County Police Department, who will be on site throughout the festival at Shelby Farms Park.

7. Is boat racing the only activity at the festival?

Not at all! The Memphis Dragon Boat Festival is a full-day cultural celebration featuring:

• 🥁 Dragon boat racing

• 🍜 Multicultural food vendors (available for purchase)

• 🎶 Live music and dance performances

• 🎉 Stage entertainment and family-friendly activities
  
  

There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

8. Who can I contact if I have questions?

For additional information, please contact:

Mr. Huimin Hu, Director of Memphis Chinese Community Center

Tel: (901) 283-0224

Email: huiminh@gmail.com

9. Where can I learn more about the festival and the organization?

You can find updates and more information at:

Website: Memphis Chinese Community Center

Eventbrite: 

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