Paddle Up! 2023 Texarkana Dragon Boat Festival May 13

One of Texarkana's premiere events the Dragon Boat Festival is taking place at Bringle Lake Park on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 9 AM to 3 PM.

Now is the time to get your team together for a fun-filled day of fun and activities. You don't have to compete in the Dragon Boat Races to come out and enjoy all the activities going on throughout the day.

There will be plenty of food vendors on hand and other family-oriented fun things to do including a specially designated play area, best costume contest, and a live auction.

Dragon Boat Pre-Party

On Friday, May 12, there will be a pre-party at the West Pavilion with live music from 6:30-8:30 PM as well as free hot dogs and drinks. Food will also be available for purchase during set up in the Athlete Village area.

So, gather around the shores of Bringle Lake Park to watch teams of 20 paddlers and a drummer help propel a 46-foot-long dragon boat along a 300-meter course across the lake.

Once the races begin there will be a different race every 10 minutes so gather around the shores at Bringle Lake Park to root for your favorite teams.

The winners will receive trophies and bragging rights for each division around 3 PM. All dragon boat races follow ADH and CDC guidelines to help keep everyone safe on the water and off.

The proceeds of the 2023 Texarkana Dragon Boat Festival benefit the programs of HandsOn Texarkana, which provides volunteer services in the greater Texarkana area.

For more information email them at handsontxk@aol.com or call HandsOn Texarkana at 903-798-3211. Check out the website here or their Facebook page for updates.