11th Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival Kicks Off

Bemidji’s most anticipated summer event is back.

The 11th annual Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival kicked off Friday evening with an opening ceremony drawing thousands. 62 teams traveled through Library Park, with Concordia’s Chinese language village leading the parade. That, was an unexpected reunion for some.

The festival was followed by one of the first races of the event, the Dondelinger GM Sprint Cup.

Every year, the money raised goes back to the community. Friday’s turn out proves race day will only get busier.

Round one of heats begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, final races are expected to begin at 4:30 p.m.

For full schedule of events, visit bemidjidragonboat.com/festival/festival-home