Dragon Boat Festival

Fundraising event a unique opportunity for Texarkana

You may have read the stories in this newspaper or heard the promotions on radio about an event today at Texarkana’s Bringle Lake.

But if you are like a lot of folks, you might be wondering just exactly what the heck is it that’s going on?

The Texarkana Dragon Boat Festival kicks off at 9 a.m. today and promises hours of fun for the whole family. So what is dragon boating? It’s a sport that is more than two centuries old and dates to ancient China. Teams of around 20 take to specially built boats and row the course in unison to the beat of a drum.

It’s challenging but fun and, best of all, it’s for a good cause.

The race benefits HandsOn Texarkana, which works to improve our community and way of life through volunteerism.

This year more than 20 teams will be competing. And while spectators enjoy the races, there will be live music and vendors offering a variety of foods.

This is the second year for the Dragon Boat Festival and organizers are expecting a great turnout—maybe as many as 6,000. Last year there were 14 teams and about 3,000 in the crowd. Admission is free.

The Texarkana Dragon Boat Festival is a unique and entertaining event and something we are sure you and your family would enjoy.