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September 16, 2006 - 11:00am to 7:00pm
South Side Riverfront Park Welcome to the
Pittsburgh Dragon Boat Festival, a non-profit
multiple-cultural initiative! The mission of the
festival is to highlight Chinese and pan-Asian cultures
in Pittsburgh, and to promote cultural understanding
between the East and the West in a fun way.
2006 marks the fifth anniversary of this growing event.
As a result of its success, the event is back by popular
demand, and will be hosted by Greater Pittsburgh Sister
Cities Association, Three Rivers Rowing Association with
support from Pittsburgh Paddlefish, Steel City Dragons,
Pittsburgh Chinese School, Three Rivers Families with
Children from China, Tzu Chi Pittsburgh Liaison Office
and the Pittsburgh Association for Science and
Technology.
Dragon Boat Racing is a 2,400-year-old traditional
Chinese activity known for its color and excitement. The
ornately carved and brightly painted dragon heads and
tails that adorn the front and back of each craft
distinguish the 44 foot-long boat. A Dragon Boat seats
20 paddlers in 10 pairs, a steersperson and a drummer.
To participate in the festival or to receive sponsorship
information, please contact Arlene Krava at 724-348-4836
akrava1@verizon.net
Dragon Boat Racing
Teams compete in the ancient Chinese tradition and
friendly competition of dragon boat racing. Known for
its color and excitement, dragon boat racing is a 2,400
year-old team competition and one of the earliest forms
of boat racing. It will make its worldwide debut at the
2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. For information or to
form or join at team, please contact Three Rivers Rowing
at 412.231.8772 or at www.threeriversrowing.org/.
Main Stage
The fun-filled day will be enriched by a series of Asian
performances, featuring traditional dances and music
from a number of ethnic community groups who complement
the city’s cultural mosaic.
Asian Food Court
You won’t be able to resist the authentic Asian cuisine
provided by some of the best restaurants in the
Pittsburgh area. For the little ones, hot dogs, ice
cream, and other items will also be available. Be sure
to bring your appetite.
Dragon Stroll
The Dragon Stroll meanders throughout the event and
features cultural displays, arts and crafts,
demonstrations, and children activities. This pleasantly
shady walk offers something for everyone and is a great
place to cool down on a hot day!
Athlete's Village
An area where excitement abounds, the dragon boat
paddlers "suit up" for their race heats, make last
minute preparations, and launch their colorful dragon
boats.
Children's Village
The Children’s Village introduces youngsters to a
variety of crafts and games intrinsic to China. Kids
will enjoy making dragon faces and other crafts, can get
an Asian temporary tattoo, or learn traditional Asian
games. All activities and demonstrations will continue
throughout the day.
Volunteer's Village
Every event would not take place without volunteers, and
the Dragon Boat Festival is no different. We thank
Dominion for sponsoring the Volunteer Village, where our
volunteer staff can rest, eat, and relax from a day’s
hard work. If you are interested in volunteering, please
contact Arlene Krava at akrava1@verizon.net. |
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