The inaugural Ohana Paddling Association Dragon Boat Festival is set for October 4, 2025.
Registration closes August 1, 2025
What is Dragon Boat?
Dragon boat racing is a centuries-old tradition rooted in ancient Chinese culture, blending myth, ritual, and athleticism into one celebration. Originally held to honor the poet and patriot Qu Yuan, the sport has evolved into a vibrant spectacle of teamwork and endurance.
Ornately carved boats crowned with fierce dragon heads slice through the water as synchronized paddlers race to the rhythm of pounding drums.
More than just a competition, dragon boat racing is a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and the enduring spirit of community that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
More Information
Race Details
Race logistics managed by GWN Dragon Boat, the festival will feature 3 × 200 meter races for Community, Corporate and Sport divisions.
Individual Paddler Details
If you are interested in racing, and am not registered under a team, you can still race as an individual paddler. Fill out the OPA waitlist form below.
What You Should Know
Registration Information
- Community
- Corporate
- Mixed
- Sport
- Mixed
- Womens
- Breast Cancer
- Registration Fees
- Before June 1st 2025: $1,050 USD
- After June 1st 2025: $1,150 USD
- Registration cut off will be August 1st, 2025
Race Rules & Regulations
Forms & Waivers
Jan 22, 2025
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Curitiba, BR
FAQs
For all other inquiries, please email: dbfestival@ohanapaddling.org
Festival Information
Festival Details – Starts at 8 am
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chinese heritage through captivating cultural performances by local community groups. The festival brings to life traditional music, dance, and hands-on activities that beautifully honor Chinese customs and artistry.
Food Trucks & Merchants
Come hungry and curious—our vibrant marketplace of vendors and food trucks is a feast for the senses! Celebrate cultures from around the world with sizzling street eats, handcrafted treats, and one-of-a-kind culinary creations.
Lantern Festival – Starts at 5:30 pm
A lantern festival is a cultural celebration that symbolizes hope, renewal, and the guiding light of good fortune. Traditionally held to mark the end of significant events, it brings communities together. The glowing lanterns are often seen as a way to honor ancestors, express wishes for the future, and foster a sense of unity and peace among participants.
Join us in launching lanterns into the North Hempstead Harbor.
North Hempstead Beach Park
Located in Port Washington, New York, the North Hempstead Beach Park is a scenic waterfront destination known for its peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of Manhasset Bay. Popular for walking, picnicking, and kayaking, the beach offers a relaxing escape with golden sand, calm waters, and a charming marina nearby. Visit Bar Beach
Sponsorship Opportunities
If you are interested in sponsoring or volunteering during the festival, please let us know.
Interested in Paddling?
Want to race in the festival but not part of a team? No problem! Sign up for the OPA Festival Paddler Waitlist. We will pair you with a team that is looking for paddlers. No experience necessary.
Local teams within the NYC area will be at the festival to answer questions about dragon boat and and provide details on how to join a dragon boat team.
Festival Sponsors
The Kerpen Foundation
We are focused on investing in the pre-seed or seed round stages for startups that meet one or more of the following criteria:
1) Woman-owned
2) BIPOC-owned
3) Social impact
We love talking to entrepreneurs. Find @DaveKerpen on social media and reach out there!
Special thanks to the following associate organizations for their support of the festival.
New York Dragon Boat Alliance 