The California Dragon Boat Association presents the 23rd Annual Northern California Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Merritt in Oakland! Cheer on the fleet of colorful 40-foot dragon boats as they race to the beat of Chinese drums this Saturday and Sunday.

This two-day, admission-free festival brings a weekend of world-class dragon boat racing, spectacular cultural performances, delicious food, a variety of clothes and crafts vendors, and kid-friendly activities in Dragon Land where games and arts & crafts await.

It’s the largest festival of its kind and thousands of paddlers from throughout the U.S. and across the globe will gather for two days to put on a show that’s filled with fierce competition. Racers from all levels, including a large number of local kids, will join to display world-class racing.

The Racing
At the heart of the festival is the race excitement, with nearly 120 dragon boat teams representing local corporations and non-profits as well as competitive teams from across the globe. Come watch your favorite Bay Area corporations, community groups, and novice teams battle it out on the water.

The Opening Ceremony
Don’t miss the Opening Ceremony on Saturday at 11:30 AM, where Buddhist monks will perform a traditional blessing and eye dotting ceremony to awaken the dragons for a weekend of racing.

Cultural Performances
Experience the nimble lion dancing, rhythmic and powerful Taiko drummers and enjoy the offerings of our many talented dance and cultural music groups. There is also a magic show, vocal performances, and acrobats. Visit the festival entertainment page for the lineup.

Dragon Land for Kids and Families
Dragon Land is bigger than ever, spreading out across large grassy play areas. It’s a magnet for kids of all ages and filled with activities–Chinese stilt walkers, arts and crafts, science activities, free games and prizes, face painting, obstacle course challenges, and more! Dragon Land is open from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM Saturday & Sunday.

Details
Saturday and Sunday, September 15 & 16
10 AM to 5 PM
Lake Merritt, Oakland

Information on how to get to the festival can be found here.

Visit the SF Dragon Boat website for updated information.