PADUCAH, Ky. (Heartland News) - The Dragon Boat Festival is set to return to the Paducah riverfront on Saturday, August 29.
Organizers say 40-foot dragon boats will be competing throughout the morning and into the afternoon. Racing begins at 9 a.m. at the foot of Broadway.
Admission is free.
They say hundreds of spectators are expected to gather along the riverfront to cheer on the teams.
This year’s lineup includes a competitive matchup between three towing companies, James Marine, Marquette Transportation and Ingram Barge.
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According to organizers, teams will compete for Best Dressed Drummer, Most Spirit (Best Costumes/Team Theme) and the People’s Choice Award.
The festival begins with the traditional eye-dotting ceremony. Organizers say once the dragons’ eyes are dotted, the dragon heads and tails are attached to the boats, officially transforming them.
In addition to the races, there will also be food, drinks, a kid zone, live music and more.
The Dragon Boat Festival is the River Discovery Center’s largest annual fundraiser. The money raised helps support the center’s work educating thousands of students about local rivers, Paducah’s connection to the maritime industry and the wide range of careers available.
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