WEEKEND BEST BET: Sarasota Dragon Boat Festival 2011

Nathan Benderson Park will host the inaugural Sarasota Dragon Boat Festival 2011 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 7.

Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in the races. No experience necessary; boats, paddles, life vests and coaches provided.

The sport of dragon boat racing is a paddlesport that uses a canoe-shaped boat painted and adorned with a Chinese dragon head, tail, drum and scales.

A community entry fee starts at $800 — or $40 per person. Corporate entry fee is $1,200.

For information or to register a team, contact Christine Canevari at (813) 600-9100 or [email protected].