A Dragon Boat is a giant Chinese war canoe (see pictures). The Springfield Dragon Boat Festival is a series of friendly, fun dragon boat races between groups, companies, organizations, etc. assembled to compete for one day. The Festival goes from 8am to 4pm on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at North Riverfront Park on the Connecticut River, 121 West Street, Springfield, MA. Your team needs at least 17 people: 8 men, 8 women, a Drummer (wears a costume, beats a drum, rides in the bow of the dragon boat), plus a few spares.

Each race lasts about one minute, each team races at least 3 times, no experience is required, all equipment is provided, a practice session is included, and medals are awarded! Festival proceeds benefit the Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club, a Springfield non-profit connecting people with healthy riverfront activity.

Schedule

7:45 a.m : Marshaling and dock staff meeting with 22Dragons at the dock
8:15 a.m : Captains meeting with 22Dragons at the pergola
8:15 a.m : Food truck with coffee and breakfast open
8:30a.m : Opening Ceremonies: Color Guard, National Anthem
8:45 a.m : "Waking the Dragon" Eye-Dotting ceremony
9:00a.m : Races commence
10:00a.m : Thai Chili Food Truck open
11:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m : Entertainment: Mountain River Taiko Drummers, Asian Performing Arts, Imperial Dragon Dancers
11:00 am : PVRC Grille open
12:00 p.m : Drummers Parade
2:00 p.m : 50/50 Raffle drawing
3:00 p.m : Cancer Survivor Flower Ceremony on the river
3:30 p.m : Medal and Award Ceremony

Date : October 14, 2023

Time : 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location : Springfield's North Riverfront Park, Springfield, MA 01101.

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