The Fort Wayne Dragon Boat Races return to Promenade Park for their 10th annual event on Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, 2026.. The two-day festival combines high-energy team competitions on the St. Mary’s River with traditional Chinese cultural celebrations, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Event Schedule & Highlights
- Friday (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM): Opening Ceremony. Features traditional dancing, local food trucks, live music, and floating fire pits or fire dancers lighting up the water.
- Saturday (Starting at 9:00 AM): Main race day. Watch 20-person teams paddle 42-foot dragon boats to a rhythmic drumbeat from the Wells Street Bridge to the Harrison Street Bridge.
Know Before You Go
- Location: Promenade Park, 202 W. Superior Street, Fort Wayne, IN.
- Cost: Free to attend and spectate. Registration fees apply for those participating in the races.
- Viewing Spots: The Auer Lawn and the riverfront trail system provide excellent vantage points to see the fast-paced, side-by-side sprints