Race participants paddle dragon boats in a fun, competitive race! A dragon boat is a traditional Chinese canoe style boat with a team of 20 paddlers plus a drummer. In our Festival, teams race three times through a 300- meter course plus get a free practice with a trainer the week before. In between race rounds, teams and spectators celebrate at a fun, family-friendly festival with food, music, arts and crafts, games and more.

This event raises money for Operation Family Help, a Signature Foundation program for families facing healthcare crises; The event also provides an opportunity to share Chinese and Asian culture with the St. Louis community, promotes a healthy and active lifestyle and promotes teamwork and teambuilding.