Dragon Boat Festival returns to The Cove June 17
For the first time since 2019 — canceled due to COVID — Knox Area Rescue Ministries Dragon Boat Festival is returning to Concord this summer.
It will be the 19th year for the event, which will take place from 7 a.m. to around 4 p.m., Saturday, June 17, on Fort Loudoun Lake in The Cove in Concord Park.
In addition to the races — described in a KARM press release as “being East Tennessee’s oldest and largest dragon boat event” — children’s activities, music and food will be part of the day’s festivities.
“This festival is one of KARM’s largest fundraisers,” the release further stated. “At the event, teams made up of 20 paddlers (plus their drummer) will race 41-foot Hong-Kong-style boats across the water.”
“Paddlers will be raising vital funds to help KARM provide food, shelter, care and life-changing programs for men, women and children struggling with homelessness in our community,” the release further stated.
This year’s fundraising goal is $150,000.
“While the Dragon Boat Festival helps KARM take care of our neighbors struggling with homelessness, it also brings together corporate, church, civic and community teams for a fun, action-packed team-building day on and off the water,” said Lauren Chesney, KARM’s community engagement manager.
She noted corporate and community teams will compete for various awards, including fastest race times, largest fundraisers, Best Team Tent, Best T-shirt and Best Drummer Costume.
For information or to register, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/karmdragonboatfestival/
“Be sure to sign up your corporate, community or friends and family team for this fun, competitive day of racing on the water,” the release stated.
