Just when you think having fun in Tampa is starting to be boring or monotonous, some crazy event like this comes along and reminds us all how awesome Tampa can be.
The International Dragon Boat Federation is bringing their 10th Annual World Championship Race to Tampa from August 1st through the 7th.
If you don't know, dragon boats are essentially the Chinese version of the U.S. row boats you see crew teams paddling in the Olympics, collegiate athletics, and other realms of competition.
Rigged with decorative dragon heads and tails, these boats are a sight to be seen, especially when they're speeding through our very own Seddon Channel traversing through Downtown Tampa and Davis Islands. Head to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on August 2nd for the opening ceremony as these ultra-long boats hit the water in preparation for the big races.
The real action begins on August 3rd as the standard dragon boats take the water for the longest race of the championships, the 2000 meter regatta. Watch dozens of teams from over 30 countries across the world compete for the ultimate championship in dragon boat racing.
For the best viewing, you can line up anywhere along the course's Hillsborough River route and watch for FREE.
This event is sure to attract a large number of spectators and visitors, so you can bet parking around Downtown Tampa, especially close to the water, is going to be pretty tough. The TECO Line Streetcar is a great solution to this problem. Park a few blocks away where it probably won't be as packed and hop on the streetcar for a speedy, authentically Tampa rail ride down to the races.
If this sounds awesome, mark the 10th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships down on your calendar for August 1st through 7th. You won't want to miss a unique, entertaining event in Tampa like this.
