The Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival 2026 has seen a strong early surge in entries, with a wide range of local organisations already signed up for this year’s event at Willen Lake on Saturday 4 July.

Organised by NewWave Events, the popular Milton Keynes event brings together businesses, charities and community groups for a day of dragon boat racing and fundraising. MKFM and Business MK are among the early entrants, alongside TwentyCi Limited, Lumensol, Parker Fluidic Solutions Europe, Prestige Lawns Ltd, dbstructural, Milton Keynes Rugby Club and Bridgman & Bridgman.

The line-up reflects the breadth of the Milton Keynes business community, spanning media, technology, engineering, professional services and sport. However, places are still available for companies, clubs and groups willing to assemble a crew of eleven paddlers.

Alicja Green, Executive Director at NewWave Events, said: “To see such a strong cross section of Milton Keynes organisations sign up so early is tremendously encouraging. There is already friendly rivalry brewing. Milton Keynes Rugby Club has declared its intention to arrive in style and compete for the Best Dressed Team award. We look forward to seeing who else takes up the gauntlet. The festival is about more than racing. It is a celebration of teamwork, charity and the power of collective endeavour.”

The festival supports local causes, with charity partners Als Pals and Toybox attending on the day. Their stalls will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about their work and contribute directly. In addition, further charity places remain available.

For many organisations, dragon boat racing offers a practical team building opportunity. Crews must work in rhythm and communicate clearly to compete effectively. Professional helms provide full instruction on the day, so no prior experience is required.

Alongside the racing, the event will feature a dedicated bar, food stalls and private barbecues for participating teams. Families can also expect an RAF flypast, inflatables, face painting and a Dragon Head workshop, while partner and charity stalls will line the shoreline at Willen Lake.

With entries gathering pace for the Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Festival, organisers are encouraging prospective teams to register soon.

More information and team entry details are available at:
https://dragonboatevents.co.uk/milton-keynes-dragon-boat-festival/

Telephone: 01536 674748
Email: [email protected]