Race for Pride, Community and just plain Fun...
from philadelphiaboatfestival.com
History
The Past
The origin of Dragon Boat Racing dates back over 2000 years to the Chinese legend of Qu Yuan, a 4th-century statesman, poet, and adviser to the king. Qu Yuan was exiled from the ancient state of Chu after his advice to the king was misinterpreted as an attempt to assume greater political power. For his offense, Qu Yuan was banished to a remote area of Hunan Province in southern China.
The dishonor of being exiled was a heavy burden on Qu Yuan. Under the weight of his sorrow, he threw himself into the torrents of the Milou River – but some local fishermen raced out onto the water to save the drowning Qu Yuan. The fishermen wildly beat their drums and splashed the water with their paddles to prevent the water dragons and fish from eating Qu Yuan.
The modern Dragon Boat Race is based upon a traditional re-enactment of the race to save Qu Yuan. Over the centuries, village fishing boats went out each year in a symbolic search, and began to take part in races that evolved into Dragon Boat Racing’s present form.
The Present
Today, Dragon Boat Racing is one of the fastest-growing water sports in the world
The boats, festooned in brilliantly colored dragon heads and tails, are manned by teams of 20 paddlers and compete against each other in several heats throughout the day.
But that’s just half the excitement. A wide range of corporate, civic and community groups send teams to this regional event, and each team sets up a tented picnic area along the riverfront — making for a fun and festive atmosphere for paddlers and spectators alike.
When?
October 5, 2013 8AM-5:30Pm
Where?
Kelly Drive Philadelphia, PA
The Route
Embassy Suites Philadelphia - Airport
Embassy Suites Philadelphia Airport is joining in the Festivities by offering all Teams and Spectators of the Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival:
from philadelphiaboatfestival.com
History
The Past
The origin of Dragon Boat Racing dates back over 2000 years to the Chinese legend of Qu Yuan, a 4th-century statesman, poet, and adviser to the king. Qu Yuan was exiled from the ancient state of Chu after his advice to the king was misinterpreted as an attempt to assume greater political power. For his offense, Qu Yuan was banished to a remote area of Hunan Province in southern China.
The dishonor of being exiled was a heavy burden on Qu Yuan. Under the weight of his sorrow, he threw himself into the torrents of the Milou River – but some local fishermen raced out onto the water to save the drowning Qu Yuan. The fishermen wildly beat their drums and splashed the water with their paddles to prevent the water dragons and fish from eating Qu Yuan.
The modern Dragon Boat Race is based upon a traditional re-enactment of the race to save Qu Yuan. Over the centuries, village fishing boats went out each year in a symbolic search, and began to take part in races that evolved into Dragon Boat Racing’s present form.
The Present
Today, Dragon Boat Racing is one of the fastest-growing water sports in the world
The Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival has grown to become the largest in North America.today.
Stroll up Kelly Drive along the Schuylkill River for an unusually colorful and dramatic regatta, the Philadelphia Dragon Boat Festival, Philadelphia’s annual celebration of an ancient Chinese tradition.The boats, festooned in brilliantly colored dragon heads and tails, are manned by teams of 20 paddlers and compete against each other in several heats throughout the day.
But that’s just half the excitement. A wide range of corporate, civic and community groups send teams to this regional event, and each team sets up a tented picnic area along the riverfront — making for a fun and festive atmosphere for paddlers and spectators alike.
Proceeds from the Philadelphia races support the services of Fox Chase Cancer Center, one of the nation’s first comprehensive cancer centers.
Kelly Drive is closed to traffic for the event and parking is scarce. If you’re coming as a spectator, you will want to pack a picnic.
Live music and vendors selling dragon boat paraphernalia and other Asian goods, including clothing and crafts.
When?
October 5, 2013 8AM-5:30Pm
Where?
Kelly Drive Philadelphia, PA
The Route
Where to Stay:
Embassy Suites Philadelphia - Airport
9000 Bartram Avenue
Philadelphia, PA
Embassy Suites Philadelphia Airport is joining in the Festivities by offering all Teams and Spectators of the Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival:
- Free cooked to order breakfast
- Complimentary Evening Reception
- Two Room Suite
- Packages that include free parking, high speed internet and Bonus HHonor Points
- Free Hotel Shuttle to Philadelphia International Airport
Click Here to pick the overnight package right for your
Philadelphia International Dragon Boat Festival Weekend
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