Watch as teams paddle in sync, competing for victory in a thrilling day of races.
Set along the scenic Cumberland River in Nashville, this free event showcases the adrenaline-pumping Dragon Boat races. Spectators can enjoy a lively day as teams compete in a colorful display of strength, endurance, and teamwork. A unique and unforgettable riverside celebration.
When
October 5, 2024 10AM - 4PM
Where
Nashville East
Riverfront Landing
Victory Ave and Titans Way, Nashville
If it weren’t for the Cumberland River, the city of Nashville would not exist. In the beginning, the river was the primary mode of transportation for hunters, it was the lifeblood for wildlife, and even today it provides drinking water for the city. If you’ve come to Nashville, you may have admired the way the river winds through the city, curving around downtown and heading up to the Music Valley area of the Grand Ole Opry. You might have taken a pontoon ride or paddled in a kayak on the river.
Founded in 1997, the Cumberland River Compact is a local nonprofit that works to keep the river clean, and to protect the watershed, including the river’s tributaries. That means helping businesses and residents tend to rain gardens and planting more trees all over the city. Once a year, the Compact also helps people get on the river in a big way. The Cumberland River Dragon Boat Festival is the Compact’s largest fundraiser and event. On October 5, 2024, more than 30 local companies and community groups (including some Bobby Nashville employees) will race against each other in 40-foot-long dragon boats. The fast-paced races are an ancient Chinese tradition.
Twenty paddlers, a steerer and a drummer pile into a boat with a dragon head and dragon tail and race 250 meters up the river. The races take place on the East Bank of the Cumberland, near Nissan Stadium, so they’re easy to watch, and with the sound of the drumming in each boat, easy to hear. You can head to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and watch from above or cross the river and head into the festival fun. The festival includes food trucks and drinks and kids’ activities, in addition to watching the races. Many teams wear elaborate, team-themed costumes. Watching people pile into boats while wearing a giant Muppet head is a lot of fun. Expect dance contests and lots of cheering, too.
The Compact will also have educational displays with information on how locals and visitors alike can help protect the Compact. The 16th annual Cumberland River Dragon Boat Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024.
