THE DRAGON BOAT RACES

Dear CAFAM members,

Boston’s famous Dragon Boat Festival will happen this year on Sunday, June 9th.

Spectators will cheer brightly colored dragon boats, crewed by forty teams from Boston, and many other cities and states. They will compete in various medal classes and special races. Races continue from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Cultural programs begin at 12 Noon in the Main Tent on the Charles River shore (Cambridge side). All programs are free and family friendly. They include a Dragon Dance, Chinese Kung Fu, traditional Korean dance, traditional Philippines dance, Chinese dance and music and traditional Japanese drumming, and many more. There are also hands-on Chinese arts and crafts in the Main Tent. Asian foods (and various other vendors) will be available along Memorial Drive.

At the inspiration of Gary Libby, CAFAM is organizing a group event to take in this wonderful event. We will take the Amtrack Downeaster to North Station and then, variously according to taste, share cabs or take the “T” to the Cambridge side of the Charles River at Memorial Drive. (The nearest “T” station is Harvard Square.)

The train leaves the Portland Transportation Center at 8:00 a.m. The return train leaves Boston at 5:00 p.m. There is also a later train leaving at 8:00 p.m.

Fare for one adult is $50.00 round trip, $75 for two adults round trip. Two children can ride free with each fare paying adult. Seniors (over 62) ride for $25.00 round trip. All adults MUST present a valid picture identification.

We will be arriving just as many activities are getting under way. There is a noon “eye dotting” ceremony for the boats, accompanied by Chinese drumming. The dragon boat races continue until 5:00 p.m. As mentioned, there will be Asian food for sale, Asian arts and crafts and cultural performances. A dragon dance will begin at 12:15 p.m. and the opening ceremony at 12:45.

People will need to budget enough time to get back to North Station for the 5:00 p.m. train home.

For more information, contact Gary Libby at 233-8015 or email him at pwdt94@yahoo.com.

Best,
Alex