Day of the Dragon

April 2020
Written By: 
Julie Flanagan
Photographs by: 
Bryan Eckardt

The Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival floats into The Market Common

NOTE: The Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival has be postponed to August 22.

Each April, colorful dragon boats take to the waters at The Market Common for this special event for a cause. The Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival will celebrate its 12th year in 2020, and the event will pit teams of 21 paddlers against each other on the lake. Paddlers and teams work to fundraise in order to compete, and the 7,000+ spectators love to see their efforts on the oars. Teams will race for the fastest time in their divisions and can win prizes and awards for both their race results and their fundraising totals. In addition to the exciting boat races, the day includes a vendor walk with food and crafts, entertainment, an awards ceremony, a Family Fun Zone and more.

The Dragon Boat Festival is the premier annual fundraiser for Ground Zero. Ground Zero is a local organization that works to create a place where every teenager can go, belong and grow. The group helps create life-changing experiences and foster nurturing relationships in order to make an impact on the lives of young people, transforming their futures and cultivating their faith. You can learn more about their mission at mygroundzero.com.

Come enjoy a beautiful day outdoors at The Market Common as you take in the exciting races and help support a great local cause. 

Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival

9 a.m.–4 p.m., Saturday, August 22
Grand Park at The Market Common, Myrtle Beach
Free for spectators, additional charge for some activities
(843) 945-9440
gzdragonboat.com