The 15th Annual Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival is once again set for the big lake in Grand Park of  The Market Common. 

The yearly festival draws people by the thousands. Lavishly painted, ornate boats are brought in for the event, along with professionals who know how to pilot them. Teams of 21 compete for the fastest time in their division to win awards and prizes. Additionally, the event offers a drummer costume voting contest, a live DJ and an awards ceremony. 

There will also be food and drink vendors and a Family Fun zone at an additional cost. 

This year also marks the 25th anniversary of Ground Zero, a faith-based ministry that helps middle and high school students “stay off the boardwalk, off the streets,” says Stephanie Sebring, advancement director of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

“Our target audience are actually those who don’t go to church… Society seems to think we have only poor, black kids. We help white, black, Mexican, Latino kids, some of whom are from local hotels or may be couch-surfing with friends.” Ground Zero features a fun, upbeat atmosphere, with XBox, Foosball, corn hole, board games, etc.

“We hold the Dragon Boat Festival as Ground Zero’s largest fundraiser,” Sebring said. The nonprofit is always in need of volunteers. “Our volunteer base is strong. The average volunteer age is 65.  Young people like older people. Many of them don’t have anyone. We want people who give positive messages.

“Ground Zero’s focus is on sharing with others, giving kids the power to change what’s going on around them.”

To learn more about Ground Zero, visit mygroundzero.com or call (843) 945-9440. 

15th Annual Ground Zero Dragon Boat Festival
The Market Common, 
4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach
Saturday, April 29, 8 a.m.
Free for spectators