Another new festival is coming to Grand Rapids! Man, GR is going to hopping in September.

Not only is ArtPrize back in September 2021, but we recently learned about a new three-day festival called Confluence, happening during the same month, that will "explore what’s possible when art, music, science, and technology converge."

And now, a new festival highlighting the Grand River is also on its way in September!

Wood TV 8 reports that Global Water Fest GR will be Saturday, Sept. 25 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Canal Park at 941 Monroe Ave NW.

The family-friendly event features Dragon Boat Races, free paddle boarding lessons, professional water jet demonstrations, and a globally-themed variety of food vendors, artisan booths, live music, and entertainment. Plus there will be a tent and social area where adult beverages are available. Global Water Fest GR is free to attend.

Interested food vendors wanting to get in on the new festival should apply by July 20 as should merchandise vendors.

The festival's main focus will be the Dragon Boat Races, a team paddling sport that originated in China more than 2,000 years ago.

One of the festival's founders,  Ace Marasigan, tells Wood TV 8,

“(With) dragon boats, you’re facing forward, you have a paddle, (and you’re) paddling to the beat of a drummer. This a traditional race coming from China. (The) whole premise is bringing this cultural addition to Grand Rapids.”

The South Haven Dragon Boat Association is providing the boats. According to a post to Facebook, two teams from the South Haven area are participating, as well as teams from Lansing and Grand Rapids. The organizers encourage teams who are interested to apply here by July 20, 2021.

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