July 22, 2024
This year, the festivities will kick off on Friday evening, August 2, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. and continue on Saturday, August 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event is sure to offer something for everyone, making it a perfect outing for families, friends and anyone looking to experience something unique.
Friday evening marks the start of the fun with the Opening Ceremony. The atmosphere will be buzzing with live music, setting the tone for a lively night. From 5:00-8:00 p.m., attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities like calligraphy, a photobooth, temporary tattoos, coloring and crafts! Local food trucks will offer scrumptious items for purchase on Harrison Street. These include Chau Time, Carmelita’s and Polski BBQ with a variety of delicious options to satisfy every craving. Ted’s snack + bar will also be open in the Plaza and the Pavilion. Adding to the cultural richness of the event, traditional Chinese dancing performances will captivate the audience with their vibrant costumes and rhythmic moves. As the sun sets, floating fire pits will light up the river as the Fire Dancers entertain! This will create a magical scene that will surely be remembered by all who attend.
The excitement continues on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. when the first heat of the Fort Wayne Dragon Boat Races begins! From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. anyone stopping by the park can enjoy dragon masks, origami and all the fun activities that were present on Friday night! Throughout the day, food trucks such as Travelin’ Toms Coffee, Carmelita’s, Kain Na, Polski BBQ, and Kung Fu Tea, will be stationed around the park, offering a variety of tasty treats and refreshments.
The second heat of races event will take place at 12:30 p.m. with the final heat beginning at 3:00 p.m.! Teams from all Fort Wayne, Kentucky and Ohio will compete in these thrilling races, paddling down the river in dragon boats. Spectators will cheer on their favorite teams, adding to the festive and competitive atmosphere.
The Fort Wayne Dragon Boat Races at Promenade Park are not just about the races; they are a celebration of community, culture and renewed awareness and use of our three rivers. With live music, traditional dancing, food trucks and plenty of activities for kids, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This event is a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate and create lasting memories. So, mark your calendars for August 2 and 3 and get ready for a weekend of fun and excitement at Promenade Park.
Click here to learn more about the Fort Wayne Dragon Boat Races!
