Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
When it comes to Miami, there are many reasons to plan a vacation. There are the beaches, the shopping, the restaurants, the water sports - the list can go on and on. However there are also some fascinating cultural events that are worth traveling for too. One particularly fun event is the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. If you're considering planning a trip to Miami in November, you might be able to sync up your trip with this festival. Keep reading to find out details about this festival, its history, and what to expect on race day.
Some travelers might be wondering, so what exactly is the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival? It helps to first define a dragon boat, which is a boat measuring 40 feet in length that carries 20 paddlers. On the day of the race, teams will race down two waterways: one that measures 250 meters and another that measures 500 meters. In 2010, the festival took place on November 13, a Saturday, and racing lasted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Not only is it a fun festival for those interested in racing the boats, but it is also fun for spectators.
A festival like the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is about more than just entertainment; it is also about culture. Prior to this festival, many Miami residents and visitors may not have ever heard of or seen a dragon boat. These races are considered a dramatic part of Asian culture and, with this festival, that aspect of culture is being shared and spread. For over 2,000 years, dragon boats have been raced on the rivers in China. While the cultural aspect of the festival is important, many locals love this festival for the spectacle, the competition, and the teamwork.
Some travelers will want to watch the competition while others will want to pick up a paddle and get in a boat. There are two different ways to participate: as an individual or by registering an entire team. The official festival website has extensive details on registering, but the basic information is that individuals can contact the organizers of the event to be matched with a team. Both local and out-of-state teams can register for the races. This event goes to support breast cancer, so you will also be supporting a good cause if you choose to participate in the race.
In a place as beautiful as Miami, you are going to want the ultimate accommodation. Skip cramped, overpriced hotels for Miami vacation rentals and feel like a local during your visit. Whether you choose an oceanfront villa or a high-rise condo with a view, you will have all the comfort and convenience of a vacation rental right at your fingertips. During popular events, like the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, rentals go quickly, so be sure to book yours in advance to avoid disappointment.
Another fun local event is the Miami Carnival.
Festival Details
Some travelers might be wondering, so what exactly is the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival? It helps to first define a dragon boat, which is a boat measuring 40 feet in length that carries 20 paddlers. On the day of the race, teams will race down two waterways: one that measures 250 meters and another that measures 500 meters. In 2010, the festival took place on November 13, a Saturday, and racing lasted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Not only is it a fun festival for those interested in racing the boats, but it is also fun for spectators.
Festival History
A festival like the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is about more than just entertainment; it is also about culture. Prior to this festival, many Miami residents and visitors may not have ever heard of or seen a dragon boat. These races are considered a dramatic part of Asian culture and, with this festival, that aspect of culture is being shared and spread. For over 2,000 years, dragon boats have been raced on the rivers in China. While the cultural aspect of the festival is important, many locals love this festival for the spectacle, the competition, and the teamwork.
Participating in the Festival
Some travelers will want to watch the competition while others will want to pick up a paddle and get in a boat. There are two different ways to participate: as an individual or by registering an entire team. The official festival website has extensive details on registering, but the basic information is that individuals can contact the organizers of the event to be matched with a team. Both local and out-of-state teams can register for the races. This event goes to support breast cancer, so you will also be supporting a good cause if you choose to participate in the race.
Accommodations
In a place as beautiful as Miami, you are going to want the ultimate accommodation. Skip cramped, overpriced hotels for Miami vacation rentals and feel like a local during your visit. Whether you choose an oceanfront villa or a high-rise condo with a view, you will have all the comfort and convenience of a vacation rental right at your fingertips. During popular events, like the Miami Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, rentals go quickly, so be sure to book yours in advance to avoid disappointment.Another fun local event is the Miami Carnival.