![Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival Logo](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/NNIDBF.png?width=5000&height=4506&name=NNIDBF.png)
Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival August 17th, 2024
Major League Dragon Boat continues to blaze trails west in Northern Nevada! Join us in the City of Sparks!
With eighty acres of water accommodating swimming, boating, fishing, and scuba diving, Sparks Marina provides the perfect conditions for stellar dragon boat racing. Add in breath-taking views of the nearby mountains, and you’ve got one of the most picturesque venues on the MLDB calendar.
Like all other MLDB festivals, this event is a travel destination offering crews plenty to see and do before and after the races. Adventurous paddlers will want to extend their stay to enjoy Whitewater Park at Rock Park for kayaking, tubing, and rafting; while those with a fever for shopping will want to check out Scheels, the largest total sports store in the world, or nearby outlet malls. Seeking nighttime entertainment? Reno is only minutes from downtown Sparks. Whatever your flavor, Sparks has you covered to make your stay a truly memorable one.
Paddlers, weekend warriors, and families are invited to join us in the festivities and excitement throughout the day at Sparks Marina! Visit the many vendors and exhibitors in the Health and Wellness Village, Food Truck Bazaar, and more.
Gather your friends, family, and colleagues and register your team today to enjoy a full day of racing! Whether you’re a beginner paddler or dragon boat pro, you’re sure to have a wonderful time racing in the City of Sparks!
CALLING ALL SOLO PADDLERS OR SMALL GROUPS
Are you looking to get on the water, but don't have a team? GWN is pleased to offer programs for solo paddlers or small groups through our Experience Dragon Boat Program!
Experience Dragon Boat Race Ready: A program designed for people looking for minimal commitment and just want to race. The program offers a 1-hour practice and then participation in the event.
Learn more by clicking here.
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.41.29 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.29%20AM.png?width=170&height=148&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.29%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.41.45 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.45%20AM.png?width=162&height=166&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.45%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.41.55 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.55%20AM.png?width=220&height=126&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.41.55%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.42.04 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.04%20AM.png?width=178&height=156&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.04%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.42.19 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.19%20AM.png?width=130&height=178&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.19%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 1.03.48 PM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%201.03.48%20PM.png?width=188&height=184&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%201.03.48%20PM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 1.05.48 PM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%201.05.48%20PM.png?width=260&height=166&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%201.05.48%20PM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.56.14 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.56.14%20AM.png?width=226&height=172&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.56.14%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.42.47 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.47%20AM.png?width=176&height=152&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.42.47%20AM.png)
![Screen Shot 2022-03-03 at 11.56.14 AM](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.56.14%20AM.png?width=226&height=172&name=Screen%20Shot%202022-03-03%20at%2011.56.14%20AM.png)
EVENT Details
Hover over each tab for more details
PRICING
Category |
# of Races |
Before Jan 1st |
Before June 1st |
After June 1st |
Mixed / Women's / Open / ACP / BCP / Paradragons (w/1 practice 3 x 500m) |
3 |
$945 |
$1,045 |
$1,245 |
Mixed / Women's / Open / ACP / BCP / Paradragons (Out-of-State) (w/1 practice 3 x 500m) |
3 |
$845 |
$1,045 |
|
Additional Practice Session |
$100 |
Prices are in USD.
Payment Methods: We accept all major credit cards, or check.
Paying by check: You will receive a discount of $25 USD. This discount will be automatically applied during the registration process.
For more information (i.e. refund policy, multi-event discount, etc), please visit our FAQ page.
Team registration fee includes 1 practice session.
To ensure races run smoothly, smaller divisions may be combined in heats but will race independently of each other.
Registration Add-Ons
Each team registered at the festival will get a 15 x 15 team site (footprint, not tent rental) within the Athletes' Village. Teams have the option to bring their own tent or rent one from GWN. In addition to tents, chairs and tables are also available. For more information on rentals, please refer to the "Athletes' Village" tab below. Teams may also order additional practices, for more information please refer to the "Practice" tab below.
LOCATION
Address: The event is held at Sparks Marina Park.
300 Howard Drive, Sparks, NV 89434
Directions: I-80 east to McCarran Blvd. exit. Head north on McCarran Blvd., turn right (east) on Nichols Blvd. Free parking is available to the north and south of the roundabout at Nichols Blvd./Howard Drive.
Site Map: 2024 map will be posted 1 week before the event.
Park Rules: We're committed to creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for participants and spectators.
Glass containers are prohibited at the park.
Alcohol is prohibited at the park.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
Teams are responsible for picking up their waste within their team sites. In addition to handing out waste bags during team check-in, there will be wastebaskets located throughout the Athletes' Village to maintain the park's cleanliness. Let's all work together to keep Sparks Marina Park clean and green.
Medical Services: Medical services and first aid will be available on site. If you're in need of medical attention, please report to the medical tent for immediate assistance.
SCHEDULE
The 2024 race schedule wWill be posted on Monday August 12th.
To ensure races run smoothly, smaller divisions may be combined in heats, but will race independently of each other.
Industry Cup Races: To qualify for a Cup race, at least 70% of the crew must be part of the same company or industry.
Live Results
Get live race results and progressions on race day using your phone. Visit www.gwnresults.com.
Race Marshaling
Marshaling for races will begin promptly half an hour before the first race of the day. Teams must be in the Marshalling area 30 minutes before their scheduled race throughout the day.
Race Day Check-In
Every Team Captain must check-in their team at Race Headquarters on race day. Registration will be open in the morning from approximately 7:00AM to 9:00AM-all teams must be checked in by this time. All waivers must be completed prior to check-in. Please visit the FAQ section for more information on how to check in on race day.
For a speedy check-in, ensure that all waivers for your team are completed. The electronic waiver deadline is 11:59AM EST on Wednesday, August 14th. Online access to waivers will be restricted after the deadline, after which only paper copies will be accepted on Saturday morning.
Team Captain's Meeting
There will be a Team Captain's meeting on Saturday morning at the Awards Stage in the Expo to discuss race day rules and answer any participants' questions, 1 hour prior to the first race.
AWARDS
Industry Cup: First-place teams will receive a trophy and gold medals.
Consolation Finals: First-place teams will receive a trophy and gold medals.
Grand Finals: Third and second-place teams will receive bronze and silver medals, respectively. First-place teams will receive a trophy and gold medals.
Awards Ceremonies
Ceremonies will take place after each Industry Cup, Consolation Race, and Grand Final Race. Volunteers will gather the gold medal-winning team as they come off the water. They will be escorted directly to the stage. Bronze and silver medal-winning teams will receive their medals in the dock area.
The A Division Grand Final ceremonies will take place after all races are completed on Saturday.
ENTERTAINMENT
Stay tuned for entertainment and on-site activities for 2024.
VENDORS
Marketplace:
- Renewal By Anderson
Food Vendors:
- Jamba Juice
- Kona Ice Of Sparks
- Taster's Paradise Mobile Cafe & Bakery INC.
- Travel In Tom's Coffee Of N.Sparks
Interested in being a vendor? Email us at info@gwnevents.com to find out more.
PARKING
Parking will be available near the festival grounds, near Nichols Blvd.
VOLUNTEER
Looking to have some fun on the docks? GWN is always looking for fantastic volunteers.
As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to be a part of the exciting and fast-paced action that is dragon boat racing. You'll also get to experience the energy and excitement of the festival event atmosphere and be a part of a vibrant community of dragon boat enthusiasts. Volunteers will be needed to help with various tasks in ensuring the safety and smooth operations of the event through the various outlined tasks:
- Boat Marshalls: Will be on the dock assisting paddlers with getting in and out of the boats. This position should be filled by people who are comfortable around the water.
- Results Runners: Will be posting the results from the Timing Officials at the Registration Headquarters. This position requires neat handwriting.
- Team Marshalls: Will assist the Marshalling Manager in ensuring that all teams are ready to load into boats at the correct time to maintain smooth running of the races.
- Crowd Control: Will ensure one-way flow traffic from the Marshalling Area after boats are unloaded.
If you would like to volunteer, we can promise some food, drinks, a really cool shirt, and community service hours (if applicable) so please complete this Volunteer Form to join our team! To get more info or ask any questions, feel free to send us an email at volunteers@gwnevents.com.
Additional Information
The official host hotel of the Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival are Western Village Inn & Casino and Courtyard Reno Downtown.
Western Village Inn & Casino
815 Nichols Blvd
Sparks, NV 89434, United States
Phone: 775-331-1069
Group Name: Northern Nevada Dragon Boat Festival
Group Code: LGWN824
Group Rate:
Room Type | Thurs Aug 15 | Fri Aug 16 | Sat Aug 17 | Sun Aug 18 |
1 King | $65 | $130 | $130 | $65 |
2 Queens | $75 | $140 | $140 | $75 |
Rates are subject to current applicable Washoe County room tax (13.5%), $2 Tourism Surcharge will be applied per room, per night. Maximum of four (4) guests.
Room Block Deadline: Wed July 31, 2024, 5PM.
Reservations: Call 1-800-648-1170 and quote group code LGWN824.
![]()
|
![]()
|
![]()
|
Courtyard Reno Downtown
1 Ballpark Lane Reno
NV, 89501, United States
Group Name: Northern Nevada Dragon Boat Festival
Group Rate: $179 - $199 USD Per Night
Room Block Deadline: Thursday, July 25, 2024
Reservations: Click here to book your stay
![]()
|
![]()
|
![]()
|
RENTAL CARS
Discount rates have been negotiated with Hertz Rent-a-Car for Major League Dragon Boat participants.
Reservations
To book your vehicle, please click here and enter discount code CDP2188961 or call 1-800-654-2240 and quote the code.
At the time of reservation, you will receive 20% off the retail rate using the discount code above.
AIR TRAVEL
GWN is proud to offer Major League Dragon Boat participants discounts on flights with United Airlines.
United Airlines
Participants can save 5% - 10% off airfares if traveling within US 50 States and between US 50 States and Canada.
To book your travel, visit united.com or call 1-800-426-1122 and enter meeting code ZPH4656886 in the Promotions field.
Each team registered at the festival will get a 15 x 15' footprint (not rental) in the Athletes' Village. Teams have the option to bring their own tent or rent one from GWN. In addition to tents, chairs and tables are also available to rent.
Team Sites will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Teams must contact GWN to book their site after they have registered for the festival and paid fees in full.
Teams wishing to rent a tent can do so using the "Get More" option in the Crew Management Tool.
Product |
Price |
10' x 10' Tent |
$325.00 |
10' x 20' Tent |
$475.00 |
20' x 20' Tent |
$750.00 |
Chair Rental |
$5.00 |
Table Rental |
$25.00 |
Prices are in USD.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Download or view a copy of the 2024 Venue Map.
2. Review the site availability grid below.
3. Select a site based on availability.
4. Email your selection to bookings@gwndragonboat.com.
ATHLETES' VILLAGE SITE AVAILABILITY
Athletes' Village |
||
1. Reserved |
2. Reserved |
3. |
4. |
5. |
6. |
7. Reserved |
8. Reserved |
9. |
10. |
11. |
12. |
13. |
14. |
15. |
16. |
17. |
18. |
19. |
20. |
21. |
22. |
23. |
24. |
25. |
26. |
27. |
28. |
29. |
30. |
Practices for the Northern Nevada International Dragon Boat Festival will be held at the event site.
Sparks Marina Park
300 Howard Drive
Sparks, NV 89434
Each practice will be 50 minutes. Please arrive at the venue 30 minutes before your scheduled practice time. Practices will not be extended if a team is late. Additional practice sessions may be purchased at $100 each, through the online registration system by clicking on the "Get More" button.
Practices can only be confirmed once event fees are received in full.
Each paddler must complete an online waiver before attending a practice. A GWN representative will be on-site to check teams in, provide assistance, and collect waivers.
For more information on what to bring, etc. visit our FAQ Page.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Ensure team fees are paid.
2. Check practice availability in the calendar below.
3. Email your preferred date/time to bookings@gwndragonboat.com.
4. Let GWN know if you require a coach/steers.
Please allow 48hrs for confirmation of practice times.
PRACTICE SCHEDULE
TBA | TBA | |
3:00PM-3:50PM |
1. 2. |
1. 2. |
4:00PM-4:50PM |
1. 2. |
1. 2. |
5:00PM-5:50PM |
1. 2. |
1. 2. |
6:00PM-6:50PM |
1. 2. |
1. 2. |
7:00PM-7:50PM |
1. 2. |
1. 2. |
To view the 2024 Participant Checklist, click here.
Event Map
![Nevada Venue Map non-interactive](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hubfs/Nevada%20Venue%20Map%20non-interactive.png)
Destination partner
![Reno Tahoe Logo](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blue-Icon-Horizontal-URL.png?width=2000&name=Blue-Icon-Horizontal-URL.png)
From painted desert peaks to alpine lake shores, Reno Tahoe delivers a plethora of adventure to scratch the thrill-seeker's itch. Cultural flairs are embraced through special events, unique food, and outdoor recreation outlets. Whether seeking rugged beauty or refined caches, Reno Tahoe is a haven for leisure travel and entertainment.
charitable partner
![Immunize Nevada](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hubfs/Immunize%20Nevada.jpg)
Immunize Nevada is proud to be the charity partner of the Northern Nevada Dragon Boat Festival for the fourth year running.
Over the past 15 months, Immunize Nevada's goals of preventing disease, promoting health, and making healthy futures possible for all 3 Million Nevadans have become more important than ever with COVID-19 now a part of our world. We're working hard to reach people across our urban, rural, and frontier communities, clearing barriers and enabling access to vaccines, health care, and other resources.
Your Dragon Boat Team can help this cause! When you participate in the Pledges for Paddling Program, you are improving the health of our communities and helping thousands of Nevadans who rely on us each day to connect them with reliable information, resources, and access to life-saving vaccines.
Dragon Boat teams have the opportunity to help us save lives, one vaccine at a time, by setting a fundraising goal. The recommended goal for a team is $1,000 - BUT any amount will help connect people in need to vaccines that prevent cancer, pneumonia, measles, serious illness from COVID-19, and more. Every dollar donated directly impacts friends, neighbors, and family members who make use of our education, outreach, and free immunization programs.
Thank you for helping us paddle towards victory.
Attention Team or Fundraising Captains: The process is easy! Visit our team fundraising platform at https://secure.givelively.org/donate/immunize-nevada/pledges-for-paddling-2021 and click "I want to fundraise for this"; enter your team name, email, and create a password; Add an optional note for people to see when they visit the page; your page has its own dedicated URL and social media sharing icons. Share in emails, social posts, and texts. You can say something like "Help my Dragon Boat team hit its goal of raising $1000 by August 21!"
Donate today to bring vaccines and vital health information to all Nevadans.
Thank you in advance for helping Immunize Nevada paddle towards victory! Please contact Marissa at marissa@immunizenevada.org or 775-624-7114 if you have any questions.
partners
![IconStacked_TruckeeBlue_900x400-1](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IconStacked_TruckeeBlue_900x400-1.png?width=1125&height=500&name=IconStacked_TruckeeBlue_900x400-1.png)
![cos_tagline_3c_logo](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hubfs/cos_tagline_3c_logo.jpg)
![Rectangle 64](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hubfs/theme_2022/images/large_lp/Rectangle%2064.png)
![Rectangle 63](https://mldb.gwnevents.com/hubfs/theme_2022/images/large_lp/Rectangle%2063.png)