Can I participate if I’ve never built a boat before?

Absolutely! The event encourages creativity and welcomes all skill levels—just have fun.

Do I need to bring my own boat?

No, teams usually bring their own designed boats, but materials can often be provided or purchased locally.

Is there an entry fee?

Yes, small registration fees typically apply, which help cover event costs.

Can children participate?

Yes, children are encouraged to join in the fun, with adult supervision advised.

When does the event typically happen?

The Regatta usually takes place annually in late summer or early fall, check local schedules for exact dates.

Are food and drinks available on site?

Yes, food trucks and vendors provide refreshments throughout the event.

Water Activities & Reston Museum: Cardboard Boat Race Fun

Lake Anne in Reston, Virginia, transforms into a bustling hub of ingenuity and friendly rivalry each year during the Cardboard Boat Regatta. This annual event isn’t just a quirky pastime; it’s a celebration of community creativity, teamwork, and the joy of making. As the sun shines over the sparkling water, teams of all ages roll up their sleeves to craft colorful, functional cardboard boats designed to float—and race—across the lake.

What makes this event stand out is its emphasis on imagination and craftsmanship. Participants often spend weeks assembling their vessels, using waterproof adhesives and vivid paints to bring their visions to life. Among the lively crowd, spectators cheer as these homemade crafts take to the water, racing in a lively, spirited atmosphere that’s as much about fun as competition. The event typically features multiple heats, with judges awarding prizes for categories like originality, design, and speed.

The Lake Anne setting offers a picturesque backdrop, with the historic community setting providing a warm, inviting vibe. Beyond the races, there’s an air of camaraderie, with food trucks, music, and activities for families. This event isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of community innovation and the simple joy of creating something that makes people smile.

Held at Reston’s Lake Anne, a vibrant local spot since the 1960s, the Regatta draws visitors from across the region, making it a must-visit for outdoor lovers and families alike. Whether you’re participating, volunteering, or spectating, the Cardboard Boat Regatta guarantees a fun day filled with creativity, laughter, and water-based excitement.

About Reston Museum

Reston Museum in Reston, Virginia preserves and promotes the history and community life of Reston through public events and guided experiences. As a local institution focused on community engagement, the museum organizes signature events and tours that highlight Reston’s design, culture, and neighborhood traditions.

The museum presents the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta, an annual community competition where teams of all ages design, build, and race life‑size cardboard boats at Lake Anne. Sponsorship opportunities for the regatta include captain-level and presenting sponsor packages that support event production and community outreach. In addition to the regatta, the museum produces the Reston Home Tour, a self-guided exploration featuring seven architecturally notable properties that showcase local residential design and neighborhood history. Each experience is structured for broad public participation, welcoming families, volunteers, and local businesses. Reston Museum collaborates with community partners to stage events that draw residents and visitors to Lake Anne Plaza and other town venues. The organization provides clear information about event formats, sponsorship tiers, and tour routes so participants can plan their visits confidently. Historical interpretation and community storytelling are central to the museum’s public programming, connecting attendees to Reston’s development and civic ideals. By focusing on accessible, place‑based experiences and transparent event organization, Reston Museum supports community involvement and preserves local heritage through engaging, participatory programs. The museum shares event schedules, participation details, and sponsor information on its public communications so prospective attendees, volunteers, and sponsors can access up-to-date logistical details before attending in Reston and surrounding communities regularly.