The 2025 Milwaukee Dragon Boat Festival is happening Saturday, July 12 from 8 am to 5 pm!

The Milwaukee Dragon Boat Race Festival is a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and competition, held annually along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan. This lively event brings together 50 teams of paddlers from across the region to compete in the ancient Chinese sport of dragon boat racing.

The festival's focal point is the dragon boat races themselves, where teams of 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer navigate colorful, dragon-headed boats through the water with synchronized strokes, striving for speed and precision. Spectators line the shore, cheering on their favorite teams and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

In addition to the races, the festival offers a variety of cultural performances, food vendors, and activities for all ages. Traditional dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations, and live music provide entertainment throughout the day. Food stalls offer a taste of Asian cuisine, with options ranging from dumplings to stir-fry, satisfying hungry spectators.