Every dragon boat festival in the world honors its roots - especially through one crucial ceremony that must take place before the first boat’s paddles slip into the water. Chinese Emperors of old called themselves ‘Dragons.’ Dragon boats have good spirits dedicated to providing enjoyment for the racers and spectators. The ceremony is an ancient rite that precedes every dragon boat festival. The act of dotting the eyes of dragons is to awaken the spirit of the dragon. According to Chinese mythology, the dragon sleeps in the mountains and travels to the water once awoken. To "awaken" the dragon, the dignitaries are led down to the water's edge, where the dragon boats await. The guests take brushes in hand, dip them in pots of red cinnabar paint, and then dab the eyes on the "blind" figurehead of each dragon boat. Once the dignitaries have successfully resuscitated the ‘dragons,' they will pave the way for future successful races.

We're honored to have local dignitaries awaken the dragons for the 5th Annual Finger Lakes International Dragon Boat Festival

• Vito Brancato - English Teacher, Boynton Middle School, Member of Ithaca Dragon Boat Club
• Dr. Luvelle Brown - Superintendent, Ithaca City School District
• Dr. Stephen Grimm - Superintendent, Lansing School District
• Mayor Carolyn Peterson - City of Ithaca

Full bios of eye-dotting dignitaries