2008 Lotus Festival and Dragon Boat Races July 11, 2008

The 2008 Lotus Festival Dragon Boat Races are sponsored by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks in conjunction with Heritage Asian Pacific, Inc, at Echo Park in Los Angeles, California, located on Park Avenue between Glendale Avenue and Echo Park Boulevard, just north of the Hollywood (101) and Pasadena (110) freeway junction, near Dodger Stadium.

Heritage Asian Pacific, Inc. is a non-profit org that hold fund raising events like the Dragon Boat races to provide scholarships to under privileged high school kids looking to go to college.

Anyone is allowed to register for the Dragon Boat races. Just form a team and register your fees before June 20, 2008. More registration information can be found on the website.

The overall Lotus Festival has many different activities that are free to the public.

The Friday Night Jazz Series on Friday July 11, 2008 and Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at 12:00 p.m., to earmark the celebration of the 31st Lotus Festival, which include live music, dance and entertainment from a variety of performers representing many of the diverse countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands. This year, the Festival will highlight the people and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands. A fabulous fireworks display over Echo Park Lake will take place both Friday night and conclude the day's activities Saturday at 9:00 p.m. with the legendary Taiko Drummers playing in the background.

Asian and Pacific Islander personalities from the media and acting professions will act as emcees/hosts during this two-day event.

Artisans-at-work will be on hand to demonstrate their skills on the beautifully decorated Flower Island Pavilion. Their artwork illustrates their spirit, tradition and pride of the Asian and Pacific Islander handiwork. This includes: paper-cutting, hand painted scrolls, calligraphy, plant and flower expertise, fish, birds and other Asian artifacts and wares.

The Health Fair will feature educational lectures on holistic fitness. Other services to be provided include: free screenings, information and referrals.

The Community Services will feature a variety of organizations offering free information, assistance and referrals in areas of employment, social services, immigration, legal services, education, housing and translating.

The Art Show Exhibit will feature artwork with the “Lotus Flower” theme. The 2008 exhibit will be opening for viewing during Festival hours at the Cathedral Center of St. Paul, 850 Echo Park Avenue, located across the street from the boathouse.

The International Boutiques will offer a variety of Asian and Pacific Islander items and gifts for sale including clothing, jewelry, artwork, hand-made crafts, incense, body oils and much more.

The Children's Courtyard will give children the opportunity to learn Asian and Pacific Islander arts & crafts, enjoy live music, stories, songs and dances.

The Queens and their Courts representing local communities will be in native dresses.

Dragon Boat Races are held both days with media, community service groups, political and business organizations, local colleges and universities whom will be competing for awards, while enjoying a day on the lake.

The Food Booth area will provide a variety of Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine that will feature enticing delicacies, and exotic beverages which are traditional to the Asian and Pacific Island Cultures.

Official Website: http://www.lotusfestival.org