Stars & Stripes PaddleFest Dragon Boat Race

RIVERSPORT’s 2026 PaddleFest dragon boat race will take place Saturday, June 27, 2-10p, as part of our annual Stars & Stripes River Festival. The event attracts both local and regional dragon boat teams to race under the lights during the OG&E NightSprints. The event is part of a whole day of Stars & Stripes River Festival racing, adventures and family fun!

PaddleFest offers two divisions: competitive and recreational.

Competitive Teams
Local, regional and national competitive dragon boat teams also race in 10-person Hong Kong style dragon boats over 500m and 200m as well as the 16-person 250m Flag Catcher.

PaddleFest competitive events include a coed (minimum 4 female paddlers) and an all women’s category. Additional categories may be offered to accommodate demand. All teams require 10 paddlers & one drummer to keep their team in sync.

The coed 250m Flag Catcher event requires 16-18 paddlers, with at least six female paddlers per team, a flag catcher & one drummer. Experienced steersman are provided; traveling teams are welcome to provide their own. Registration includes the event entry fee, a steersman and equipment, plus a reserved space where you can place your team tent.

• 1 Race $250: Flag Catching Race   
• 2 Races $500: 200m Sprint + Flag Catching Race 
• 3 Races $750: 500m Race + 200m Race + Flag Catching Race

Recreational Teams
Forming a team for PaddleFest racing is easy and a great way to get on the water with family, friends or colleagues. This event starts with an exciting 125m sprint to the flag followed by a 180 degree turn to return to the finish – first flag across the finish line wins! This recreational event requires 16 paddlers, with at least six female paddlers per team, a flag catcher & one drummer.

• Flag Catching Race $250  

For paddlers traveling to Oklahoma City to race, special event rates are available at our partner hotels.

For more information about PaddleFest, email us!