Can I participate in building a boat?

Yes, the event is open to all, and you can register to participate or simply come to cheer from the sidelines.

Is there an entry fee?

Participation may require registration, but generally, the event is free to spectators.

Are there food options available?

Yes, local vendors and food trucks offer a variety of tasty treats during the event.

Can kids participate?

Absolutely! The event is family-friendly and encourages kid-friendly boat building.

What’s the best time to arrive?

Arrive early in the morning for race heats and to secure good viewing spots.

Are boats provided or do I need to bring my own?

Participants typically bring their own boats built from the provided kits or materials.

Water Activities & Reston Museum: Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta

The Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta in Reston, Virginia, offers a lively splash of competitive fun that draws both locals and visitors alike. Situated in the picturesque Lake Anne Village Center, this annual event transforms everyday cardboard into vessels of creativity and teamwork. Participants of all ages assemble to craft whimsical, innovative boats designed solely from cardboard and waterproof sealants. The result? A parade of colorful, often hilarious crafts that race across the lake amid cheers and applause. What makes this event truly exceptional is its community spirit—families, schools, and groups band together to design and build their boats, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inventiveness. The regatta’s setting on Lake Anne, with its serene waters and scenic surroundings, offers ample viewing spots for spectators eager to witness the ingenuity on display. Beyond the excitement of the races, the event features food vendors, live music, and opportunities for on-water fun, creating a festival atmosphere rooted in local pride. The Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta epitomizes how a simple material like cardboard can be turned into a spectacular display of creativity, making it a uniquely charming tradition in the Northern Virginia area. Whether you're participating or just watching, it’s a memorable and family-friendly experience that taps into the joy of hands-on innovation. This event belongs to the heart of Reston, a town celebrated for its vibrant community and waterfront charm, offering a distinctive outdoor activity that’s about more than just racing—it's about celebrating resourcefulness and community connection.

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.

Water Activities & Reston Museum: Lake Anne Cardboard Boat Regatta

Adventure Brief

Keep the Adventure Going

Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Highlights

Local Insights

Related Adventures & Guides

Operated By

About Reston Museum

Attend or Sponsor an Upcoming Reston Event

Adventure Tips

Recommended Gear