Why it matters: The expanded festival represents the charity's largest annual fundraiser, with Brave Futures aiming to surpass last year's £50,000 total.
The big picture: The event has been renamed the Ipswich Dragon Boat Festival to reflect its transformation from a traditional race into a waterfront-wide celebration, with local businesses across the marina getting behind the initiative to create a vibrant community event.
The details: Teams of 10 colleagues, friends, and community groups are invited to take to the water, with plans for even more boats than the 30 teams that competed last year. The festival footprint will stretch across the Waterfront, creating a trail of activity from one end of the marina to the other.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular Chinese lion dancers, live entertainment, and attractions throughout the day. In a special addition for 2026, Ipswich Harbour Trust will bring along their historic 1948 motor tug, which will be open to the public.
What they're saying: Sandra Lucas, Engagement and Fundraising Officer at Brave Futures, said: "The Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a race – it's my favourite time of the year and a chance for the whole community to come together for such a brilliant day for an incredible cause. Every team, every cheer, and every pound raised helps us support children and young people who need us most, especially as demand for our services continues to grow."
For context: The event is sponsored by Cory Brothers, hosted by BBC Radio Suffolk's Wayne Bavin, and supported by official media partner Suffolk Sound. The funds raised will directly support children and families in need, helping provide care, guidance, and hope at the most difficult times. Demand for the charity's specialist support services for children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse has risen by as much as 36% in some areas.
The bottom line: With spaces limited and demand for the charity's services continuing to rise, Brave Futures is calling on the community to gather their teams and help make the 2026 festival the biggest and boldest yet.
