Paddling for the Pink: Lake James Dragon Boat Festival, is a high‑energy, family‑friendly event that brings our community together for a day of racing, connection, and purpose. Held at Lake James State Park, the festival features exciting dragon boat races, local vendors, music, and activities for all ages. At its core, this event raises awareness and critical funding to expand access to life‑saving breast health services across our region, while honoring survivors and remembering loved ones impacted by cancer.
Inspired by the Healing Dragons of Lake James, a group founded by breast cancer survivors, the festival has grown into a powerful community tradition. Each year, teams, volunteers, and supporters come together to celebrate resilience, build connections, and make a meaningful difference for individuals and families in Western North Carolina.
Paddling for the Pink features professionally managed races led by Pan Am Dragon Boat Company, who provide each team with everything needed to compete, including the boat, paddles, and safety equipment. Teams also participate in a guided practice session, making it easy for first-time paddlers to learn and feel confident on the water.
Each team includes 20 paddlers, with at least eight female participants, plus a drummer or team spirit leader. On race day, teams compete in multiple heats along a 300-meter course, with each race lasting just a few minutes and delivering fast-paced excitement. Medals are awarded to top finishers in each division, with an overall champion recognized at the end of the day.
Register a Team
With thousands of attendees each year, Paddling for the Pink offers a meaningful opportunity to showcase your business while supporting a cause that directly impacts our community. This event raises critical funds to expand access to life-saving breast health services across our region.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at a variety of levels, offering visibility before, during, and after the event. Each level is designed to help partners connect with attendees while demonstrating a shared commitment to improving health and well-being in Western North Carolina.
For more information about sponsorship levels and benefits, please contact our team or complete the sponsorship packet.
Dragon Boat Sponsorship Packet
Interested in being part of Paddling for the Pink?
We welcome a limited number of food, beverage, and specialty vendors to help create a vibrant and enjoyable festival experience for our guests.
Vendor space is limited, and preference is given to businesses that align with outdoor recreation, wellness, and community engagement. To ensure variety, only a limited number of vendors offering similar items will be accepted.
Vendor Details
- Standard booth space: 10’ x 10’
- Access to a high-traffic, family-friendly community event
- Opportunity to connect with attendees from across the region
Important Note: Festival timing may vary based on race progression, weather, and overall event flow | Vendor setup and breakdown times will be shared in advance with accepted participants
Apply to be a Vendor
Be part of the energy behind Paddling for the Pink. Volunteers play a key role in bringing this event to life and supporting our mission to make a difference in the community.
All volunteers receive a festival t-shirt, breakfast, and lunch as a thank you for their time and support.
Sign up today and help make Paddling for the Pink a great experience for everyone.
Sign up to Volunteer
Event Details
- Lake James State Park
- Full-day event with races, activities, and ceremonies (Schedule may vary based on race progression)
Admission
- Free to attend
- Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets
Festival Guidelines
- No pets, coolers, or outside food permitted
Parking and Transportation
- On-site parking available (Carpooling encouraged)
Food and Drinks
- A variety of food and beverage vendors available throughout the day
- Options available for all ages
