By Bernie petit

John Chen asked himself a question before the merging of the Charlotte Dragon Boat and Asian Festivals in 2006:

How can the event benefit the community?

Years later, the annual festivals continue to answer that question by attracting more than 7,000 visitors to Ramsey Creek Park in Cornelius for a cross-cultural, interactive event that brings people together through food, art, culture and team building. The event returns Saturday, May 13, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Funding from ASC has benefitted the Charlotte Dragon Boat and Asian Festivals for most of their combined existence. In recent years, that support has been through ASC Cultural Vision Grants. A $15,000 Cultural Vision Grant supports this year’s festivals, which celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. 

“(ASC’s) staff work with us throughout the grant application and panel review process, providing feedback and guidance to help us continue to successfully demonstrate to grant panelists the Asian Festival and Dragon Boat Race’s alignment with the Cultural Vision Grant program’s goals of building community by connecting individuals across points of difference and by nurturing, celebrating and supporting authentic cultures and creative expression,” Chen said. 

Charlotte newcomer James Marshall and his family were first-time event visitors last year. Marshall said the festivals are valuable.

“I think that first and foremost, just to bring a bunch of different people together and have fun and celebrate and enjoy together,” he said.

When asked if it’s important to continue supporting events like the Charlotte Dragon Boat and Asian Festivals, he responded immediately.

“Absolutely,” he said, “especially in the times we’re in now.”