Upcoming Events
LAKE CHAMPLAIN
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Last held: August 9, 2026
A big thanks goes out to all those who supported Vermont's most inspiring day on the water in 2026. Nearly 50 teams competed while raising critical funds for breast cancer survivorship programs and a rotating cancer related charity each year. Every paddle stroke represented hope, healing, and the strength of community.
Volunteers Made Magic Happen
The Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival runs because volunteers like you make it happen. From registration and entertainment to dock support and logistics, caring community members power the day!
THANK YOU to the nearly 50 community members who helped Dragonheart Vermont's 200+ member volunteers to deliver the best Dragon Boat Festival yet. Please know that you are part of something bigger than race day.
Who We Are
Dragonheart Vermont is more than just a dragon boat team. We're a community united by courage, determination, and a mission rooted in breast cancer survivorship.
Since our founding, we've paddled together on Lake Champlain, proving that life after cancer can be vibrant, active, and full of adventure. Our team includes survivors, supporters and anyone who wants to be part of something bigger.
Join Us
The 200+ members of Dragonheart Vermont paddle all summer and compete around the region, the country, and the world. We welcome new paddlers through most of the year. After our Festival, we offer a "Post-Festival Member" option at just a fraction of our normal dues. Paddle through the end of the season and take part in our Off-Season Training program.
What Our Paddlers Say
"For us it's about the bond — having a place where you can go and people you can be around and they get it. You don't have to say anything. You could just say, 'I need a hug today.' Some people drum, some people run — for us, it's paddle." — Deb, Dragonheart Vermont breast cancer member
"I don't want to stand on the side and be a spectator. I want to be part of it. The beauty of it is it's a very inclusive sport." — Peggy, Dragonheart Vermont member
"I've gotten invited over for family dinners and spent holidays with members of the team. That level of social connection really made my experience here in Vermont what it has been — and it's been incredible." — Zach, Dragonheart Vermont member
TEAM IN ACTION
Experience the energy, spirit and camaraderie of our dragon boat family
Ways to Get Involved
Whether you want to paddle, give or cheer from the shore, there's a place for you at Dragonheart Vermont.
Become a Member
Join 200+ paddlers on Lake Champlain. We welcome new members of all ages, genders, and experience levels — beginners included. We are currently offering an "end of season" membership at drastically reduced cost.
Sponsor the Festival
Support the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival as a corporate or community sponsor and connect your brand with a cause that brings thousands to Burlington's waterfront.
Make a Donation
Your donation supports cancer survivors in Vermont through our annual festival proceeds and year-round programming.
Founders’ Profile
Linda and John Dyer are the founders of Dragonheart Vermont. Their combined energies made a dream come true in creating a breast cancer survivor and supporter dragon boat team on Lake Champlain, one of the largest in the country. What began as the sheer joy of being "first in our lane" grew into national championships under the tutelage of Coach John, and loads of hard work.
Linda and John's work ethic, joie de vivre and commitment set an example for the club that has inspired the women and men of Dragonheart Vermont to achieve those results while also doing good work for cancer survivors in the community through our Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival. Linda's smile and John's "Relentless Positive Thinking" inspire the team to work hard and to have fun. They are a force to be reckoned with — just try saying "no" to them!