Dragon boat racing is one of the most popular attractions at the annual Asian Festival. Photo: Andrea Lee

May 13. The Charlotte Asian & Dragon Boat Festival on Saturday, May 17 at Ramsey Creek Park is a Lake Norman tradition. Presented by Carolinas Asian American Chamber of Commerce, the family-oriented festivals celebrate Asian cultures.

The dragon boat races have been a sight to behold here since 2006.

Public parking is not available at Ramsey Creek Park, but a free shuttle service begins at 9 am at 8900 North Pointe Executive Park in Huntersville, just east of Birkdale Village.

The Dragon Boat Race includes more than three dozen teams and 1,000 paddlers. Dragon Boat registration check-in begins at 7:30 am.

Parking for the festivals is located at 8900 North Pointe Executive Park, just east of Birkdale Village. To expedite the shuttling and parking process, drivers are highly encouraged to drop off and pick up passengers directly to/from the Ramsey Creek Park entrance gate then park in the designated parking lot.

The festivals include:

Cultural Performances
Dragon Boat Festival Race
The Best of Asian Festival Performing Arts
Cultural Showcase
Traditional Food and Crafts
Vendor and Sponsor Booths