2013 San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival
September 14-15, 2013@Treasure Island
Join a social or corporate boat team or be a spectator and cheer on the boaters at the 19th annual San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival at Treasure Island on San Francisco Bay. Celebrate Asian culture, music, dance and the ancient Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing in the vibrant city of San Francisco. Spend a fun weekend at the 2013 San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival, featuring the exciting dragon boat races on the waters of the San Francisco Bay. This year, the amazing event has over 130 dragon boat teams – from novice to competitive - and 3,500 dragon boat paddlers racing the 500 and 300 meter course. Teams represent Bay Area corporations, public agencies, and the non-profit community. The championship race promises to be one of the fiercest battles for victory to date! The San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival also presents spectacular cultural performances, including live music and dance performances, festive activities, arts and crafts vendors, and authentic Asian cuisine. Enjoy live entertainment on the main stage, including the powerful and rhythmic Taiko drumming, lion dancing, acrobatic martial arts, dance groups, and cultural music. Check out the magic shows, yo-yo stunts and the kid’s sing-along. Kids love to play at Dragon Land, a children’s pavilion with games, face painting, animal balloons, arts and crafts, temporary tattoos and yo-yo lessons. Stroll through the marketplace for handmade Chinese arts, crafts, athletic wear and paddling gear. Dig into some delicious Thai, Hawaiian, and Vietnamese foods, as well as unique local eats and fresh seafood at food trucks and carts. Favorite street eats include Curry Up Now, Kara's Cupcakes and Jamba Juice. Emanating in South China, dragon boat racing is the fastest growing team water sport in the world. The dragon boat consists of paddlers, drummers, and a steer person, and encompasses the elements of power, speed, synchronization and endurance. One of the largest dragon boat competitions in North America, the San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival celebrates this ancient tradition. Experience the excitement and grace of the dragon boats exploding through the waters of San Francisco Bay!