Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival

Things to Do

Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Until Sun Aug 5 2012

Not yet rated

Be the first...

Time Out says

Thu Mar 15 2012

Legend has it that on the fifth day of the fifth moon of the lunar calendar in 278 B.C., the Chinese poet Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River in Hunan province. To prevent evil water spirits from consuming their hero’s body, local fishermen set out onto the river, beating drums and splashing paddles. Centuries later, the rescue mission is commemorated with aquatic races held annually around the globe. New York’s event attracts more than 170 teams and 2,000 participants from across North America to compete for cash and other prizes. Starting at 9am, oarsmen will propel colorful teak vessels carrying drummers onto Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park. Heats continue through the day, and performances—including a martial-arts demonstration by Shaolin masters, and traditional lion and dragon dances—will entertain spectators. More than 15 artists will lead workshops in traditional crafts such as calligraphy, rice-doll making and paper-cutting at an arts and crafts tent. If you need a snack, pick up some zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in palm leaves) as well as fare like vegetable lo mein and bubble tea ($5–$8.50) from Tea and Latte Sago. MTA shuttle runs from MetsÐWillets Pt station.

Critics' pick

Comments

Add +

Venue details

MAP

Name:
Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
Address:
Flushing Meadows–Corona Park 111th St to Van Wyck Expwy
Flushing
Queens

Cross Street:
between Flushing Bay and Grand Central Pkwy
Phone:
718-760-6565
Website:
nycgovparks.org/parks/fmcp/
Transport:
Subway: 7 to Mets–Willets Pt
Map
1. Flushing Meadows–Corona Park
  - 111th St to Van Wyck Expwy
    Flushing
    Queens
  - 718-760-6565
  - nycgovparks.org/parks/fmcp/
  - 40.749824,-73.797634