Got a team, a cause and a bit of competitive spirit? The Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival is back for its 24th year, and we at NewWave Events would love you to get involved.
We’re at Willen Lake on Saturday 10th July 2027, with teams racing each other in dragon boats over a series of heats. It’s an open charity event, which means every team picks the cause they want to raise money for. That could be a national charity, a local group or something close to home for your team.
Your team, your cause
For many teams, the fundraising is as much a part of the day as the racing. Some back a charity they support all year round. Others choose one that’s personal to a colleague or a friend. Whatever the cause, every pound raised goes to the charity your team has chosen.
“The Milton Keynes festival has always been about people coming together for something they care about. Because teams choose their own charity, the day means something different to every crew on the water. It’s a great atmosphere and we can’t wait to do it all again in 2027,” said Alicja Green, Executive Director at NewWave Events.
What to expect
Each team has a group of paddlers, a drummer and an experienced helm. No previous experience is needed. You can compete for medals and a trophy, and there’s a prize for the top fundraising team.
There’s plenty going on away from the water too. We’ll have inflatables for the kids, face painting, and a dragon dance to watch. You can also join a Dragon Flow workshop. Charity stalls will be dotted around the site, so you can find out more about the causes teams are racing for.
When you need a break, there’s a bar and a range of food and drink on site. Friends, family and colleagues are welcome to come along and cheer from the bank.
Are you a charity?
We’d love to hear from you. As this is an open charity event, there are a few ways for your charity to get involved:
- Be chosen by a team. Teams already entered can pick your charity as the cause they race for.
- Promote the festival yourselves. Spread the word to your supporters, volunteers and corporate contacts, and encourage teams to enter and raise money for you.
- Join us on the day. Charity stalls are a great way to meet teams and spectators and tell people about your work.
This year, teams raised money for a wide range of causes, including YMCA, ALS Pals, Willen Hospice, and many more.
If you’d like to find out more about getting involved in 2027, get in touch at isabel@newwave-events.co.uk.
Key Information for Teams & Charities:
- Event: Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival 2027
- Date: Saturday, 10th July 2027
- Location: Willen Lake, Milton Keynes
- Charity: Open Charity
How to get involved
Entries open in December 2026. You can find out more now at dragonboatevents.co.uk or email isabel@newwave-events.co.uk to register your interest and be among the first to hear when places are released. Put the date in your diary and start thinking about who you’d like to race for.