The waters of Lake Merced in San Francisco’s southwest came alive this past Saturday with the rhythmic drumming and synchronized paddling of dragon boat teams. The event marked the long-awaited return of the Dragon Boat Festival a tradition that had been on hiatus since 2015 due to redevelopment plans on Treasure Island.
The festival, organized by the Community Youth Center and the California Dragon Boat Association drew over 3,000 spectators and participants over two days. Teams of 20 paddlers each competed in 200-meter races, with the top 12 teams advancing to a thrilling 2,000-meter final. The event was not just a competition but a celebration of culture and community featuring food, music, and educational activities.
The Revival of a Beloved Tradition
The festival’s return was spearheaded by Henry Ha a program director at the Community Youth Center with over 20 years of experience in dragon boating. Ha’s inspiration came from trips to the Pearl River Delta region in China, where he witnessed the vibrant celebrations and the deep cultural significance of the festival.
“They don’t even talk about congratulations, you win first place,” Ha said, recalling the camaraderie and shared joy he experienced in China. Ha’s vision for the festival’s return included adding educational aspects, such as zongzi wrapping demonstrations and Chinese folk music performances, to highlight the festival’s rich history and cultural significance.
The festival’s theme, “Friendship through Dragon Boat” reflected Ha’s desire to bring the community together and celebrate the history and cultural aspects of the holiday. The festival commemorates Qu Yuan a beloved Chinese poet and statesman who lived over 2,000 years ago, and is celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar’s fifth month.
The Spirit of Competition and Community
The festival featured a diverse range of teams, from experienced paddlers to novices, including the Phoenix Women Warriors a team of women ranging from their 20s to their 70s. The team was formed almost overnight and showcased the inclusive and welcoming nature of the sport.
“Telling people who haven’t touched a paddle for 10, 20, 30 years — I was really excited,” said Dorothy Yeung a paddler and the founder of the Phoenix Women Warriors team. “Once you paddle, once you race, you never forget.” Yeung, who helped bring the dragon boat tradition to San Francisco in the 1990s emphasized the sport’s ability to foster team spirit and community building.
The festival also featured a phoenix boat a mixed-gender vessel that signaled the sport’s evolution and inclusivity. The boat, purchased from China, was the first of its kind in the United States and represented a significant step forward for the sport.
A Celebration of Culture and Camaraderie
The festival offered more than just competitive racing. Spectators and participants alike enjoyed a food festival featuring traditional dishes like roast pork, live entertainment, hands-on drumming experiences, and workshops teaching the art of zongzi wrapping. The event also included a mini dragon boat activity for kids, ensuring that the next generation could experience the thrill and camaraderie of the sport.
The festival’s success was evident in the enthusiasm and participation of both novice and experienced teams. Jack Zee who stepped down from his role as the California Dragon Boat Association’s president to focus on the festival, was heartened by the turnout. “I was very happy to see the novice teams sign up, because that’s how you grow,” Zee said. “Once you get involved, you do get very excited. You will join a team. You will get others involved.”
The association hopes to create a dedicated space for dragon boating as part of the Candlestick Park redevelopment, signaling their commitment to growing the sport locally. The festival’s return has reignited the passion and excitement for dragon boating in San Francisco, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.
The Dragon Boat Festival’s return to San Francisco is a testament to the enduring appeal of this ancient tradition. It is a celebration of culturecommunity and the shared joy of friendly competition. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly inspire future generations to embrace the spirit of dragon boating.
