Dragon Boat Festival returns to Lake Lanier Sat.

GAINESVILLE - The colorful Dragon Boats return to Lake Lanier Saturday for the 17th annual Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival.

The event gets underway at 7:00 when Buddist Monks will bless the Dragon Boats, followed by the National Anthem and raising of the flag at 7:30.

Then the races begin:

7:45 AM – 12:30 PM Dragon Boat Races (New heat every 9 minutes)
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Opening Ceremonies, Dotting of the Eye of the Dragon and Asian Talent Presentation
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM Dragon Boat Races
3:30 PM – 3:50 PM 2000 Meter Dragon Boat Race (Finish Line Tower)
4:00 PM – 4:30 PM 2000 Meter Dragon Boat Race (selected teams only)
4:45 PM – 5:00 PM Awards and Raffle Drawing

According to the Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival website, the Lake Lanier race traces its roots to the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, described as "undoubtedly one of Hong Kong’s most popular events, drawing thousands of spectators and racing teams from across the globe." Dragon Boat festivals and races are now held not only throughout Asia but also most notably the U.S., Canada and Europe.

The Lake Lanier races are held at the Olympics venue on Clarks Bridge Road.

Link: Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival