This Old-School Massachusetts Boston Dragon Boat Festival Is A Great Way To Kick Off Summer
The Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is a vibrant cultural and sporting event held annually in mid-June along the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
With summer quickly approaching, it's time to make a list of all the places we want to go to, as well as all the events and festivals we wish to attend. You know, make a summertime bucket list! One event that's a great kick-off to summer in Massachusetts is the fantastic annual dragon boat festival in Boston. Not only will you get to see the sport of dragon boating in action but experience an extraordinary cultural event.
Officially named the Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, it is held in Cambridge along the Charles River at the Weeks Footbridge.
This annual favorite takes place in mid-June and draws folks from all over Massachusetts.
This is the oldest dragon boat festival in North America.
It was first held along the Charles River in Boston in 1979.
Over 2,000 paddlers compete in the dragon boat race on the day of the festival.
Hong Kong-style dragon boats are used for racing here.
The boats, paddles, drums, and flotation devices are provided to race participants.
The 500-meter race course begins between the River and Western Avenue Bridges.
It will end near the John W. Weeks Footbridge, which is one of the most beautiful bridges in Massachusetts.
This really is an incredibly exciting sporting event along the Charles River.
In addition to the dragon boat races, there are plenty of cultural demonstrations.
You'll also enjoy a wide array of family-friendly activities for all ages.
For dates and event information, visit the Boston Dragon Boat Festival's official website and follow the Facebook page for updates.
The festival is a wonderful kick-off to summer in Massachusetts. Have you attended in the past? If so, what was your favorite part? Will you make plans to go this year? Would you agree that it is among the best festivals in Massachusetts? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!
Another way to make your summer memorable is to visit one of these little-known beaches in Massachusetts.
If you’re still in the mood for more Old Bay State adventures, take a look at this video:
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