The organisers of the Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival are thrilled to announce that entries are now open for the 2026 event, promising to be the most spectacular festival yet.
Local businesses, social clubs, and community heroes are being called on to assemble a team and join the fun on Saturday, 4th July 2026, at Willen Lake.
This is more than just a race; it's the ultimate team-building experience and a vibrant celebration of community spirit. This year, organisers are cranking up the excitement with a huge programme of entertainment for the whole family.
Beyond the thrilling dragon boat races, the festival site will be buzzing with inflatables, a fascinating Dragon Workshop where you can learn the legends, a Lion Dance performance, and talented face painters and caricaturists to capture the day.
And look to the skies for a stunning flypast that will kick off the celebrations in style!
The 2026 festival is an official Open Charity Event, which means every competing company or team can choose to raise funds for a charity that is close to their hearts. To support this incredible effort, our partners at Urban Battlefields are donating a fantastic top prize for the event's highest fundraising team!
Local charities and non-profit organisations will also have the opportunity to purchase a stall at the festival. It's the perfect chance to promote your work, engage with thousands of supporters, and boost your fundraising on the day.
“This is our biggest and most exciting festival line-up yet,” said Alicja Mierzejewska at NewWave Events. “Between the racing, the family entertainment, the glory of the trophies, and the chance for teams to support any charity they choose, it’s going to be an unforgettable summer Saturday. We can’t wait to see you on the water!”
The competition on the water will be fierce, with plenty of opportunities to win! We will be awarding trophies to:
-
The top three fastest crews.
-
The best-placed mixed crew (with a minimum of 5 female paddlers).
-
The crew raising the most money for charity.
-
The 'best dressed' crew.
For teams looking for the ultimate festival experience, enhanced Silver and Gold packages are offered.
The dragon boat racing itself remains the heart of the action. It’s the UK’s fastest-growing water sport, and no experience is needed!
Each team consists of 10 paddlers, a drummer to keep rhythm, and a professional helm—so all you need to bring is energy and team spirit.
Key Information for Teams & Charities:
-
Event: Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival 2026
-
Date: Saturday, 4th July 2026
-
Location: Willen Lake, Milton Keynes
-
Team Entry: Standard entry £750 + VAT per team – enhanced Silver & Gold packages available!
-
Theme: Open Charity Event – fundraise for a cause you love!
-
Prizes: Trophies for winning crews, medals for top 3, and a top fundraiser prize donated by Urban Battlefields.
-
Extras: Charity stalls, team gazebos, and private catering available.
For more information, to enter a team, or to enquire about a charity stall, visit the official website: https://dragonboatevents.co.uk/milton-keynes-dragon-boat-festival/
