Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival

The 9th Annual Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival blends ancient culture with the excitement of sport and competition, transforming Busse Woods (Ned Brown Preserve) into the host venue for this high-energy day of racing. With festival grounds just a short drive from downtown Chicago, it’s no surprise that this event has grown to become one of the most popular destinations on the MLDB map for US and Canadian teams alike.

Don't have a team? We have the Experience Dragon Boat Program, click here for more information.

In 2015, GWN welcomed the USDBF Club Crew National Championships, during which teams fought for a berth at the 2016 IDBF CNCC World Championships. In 2018 the event was moved to Busse Woods (Ned Brown Preserve) in the Schaumburg/Elk Grove communities and was met with rave reviews. This beautiful park will provide an ideal setting for competitive racing and good community fun. You can still expect to share the water with teams representing Fortune 500 companies, some of the nation's best paddlers as well as many visiting Canadian teams.

In addition to its prime location on and off the water, this festival is proud to support Adaptive Adventures, a charity dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals with disabilities, through year-round adaptive sports and recreation programs.  

Spectators and paddlers are welcome to explore the Cultural Village or try out products and services from the Health and Wellness Village. Paddlers will have their own zone to relax and get race-ready in the Athletes’ Village.

CALLING ALL SOLO PADDLERS OR SMALL GROUPS

Are you looking to get on the water, but don't have a team? GWN is pleased to offer programs for solo paddlers or small groups through our Experience Dragon Boat Program!

Experience Dragon Boat Train and Race: A five-week program, with one practice per week and finishing up at the Major League Dragon Boat Festival in your community. This is a perfect opportunity to try the sport. We supply you with all the equipment needed - paddles and lifejackets – all you have to do is show up in clothes that can get wet!

Experience Dragon Boat Race Ready: A program designed for people looking for minimal commitment and just want to race. The program offers a 1-hour practice and then participation in the event.

Learn more by clicking here.

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