A Dragon Boat is a giant Chinese war canoe. 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 a summer Saturday 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.

Admission is free for spectators to enjoy the dragon boat racing, food trucks, cultural performances, and more!

Schedule:

7:45am - Marshaling and dock staff meeting with 22Dragons at the dock

8:15am - Captains meeting with 22Dragons at the pergola

8:15am - Food truck with coffee and breakfast open

8:30am - Opening Ceremonies: Color Guard, National Anthem

8:45am - "Waking the Dragon" Eye-Dotting ceremony

9:00am - Races commence

10:00am - Thai Chili Food Truck open

11:00am - 12:00pm - Entertainment: Mountain River Taiko Drummers, Asian Performing Arts, Imperial Dragon Dancers

11:00am - PVRC Grille open

12:00pm - Drummers Parade

2:00pm - 50/50 Raffle drawing

3:00pm - Cancer Survivor Flower Ceremony on the river

3:30pm - Medal and Award Ceremony

Admission: Free