Join in the fun at the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta, where creativity meets competition on the water with colorful, makeshift boats. Discover why this community event is a must-see in Reston!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 day
Fitness Level
Open to all ages and fitness levels, designed for family-friendly participation
Wildlife
History
The event celebrates the innovative spirit of the Reston community, which was founded in 1964 as America’s first post-war planned community.
Conservation
Participants are encouraged to use eco-friendly materials and dispose of waste responsibly to protect Lake Anne’s water quality.
Reston Museum
Join in the fun at the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta, where creativity meets competition on the water with colorful, makeshift boats. Discover why this community event is a must-see in Reston!
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.
Location
Reston, VA
Located in Reston, Virginia.
Signature Event
Cardboard Boat Regatta
Annual community boat race at Lake Anne.
Home Tour
7 properties
Self-guided Reston architecture tour.
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Range of community events and tours.
View sponsorship options, event schedules, and tour details to join the Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta or the Reston Home Tour.
Wear waterproof clothing
Get splashed and muddy—dress in clothes you don’t mind getting wet or stained.
Arrive early for the best spots
Secure a good viewing area along the shoreline for optimal race watching.
Bring extra camera gear
Capture the creative boats and lively atmosphere—equipment you won’t mind getting damp.
Join the fun with a homemade boat
Participate by designing your own cardboard boat for a chance to race or cheer on others.
Waterproof shoes
Prevent slipping and keep your feet dry during boat races.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure during outdoor viewing.
Camera or smartphone
Capture colorful moments and creative boats in action.
Light backpack or tote
Carry essentials like water, snacks, and extra clothing.