MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. - The Gateway Dragon Boat Festival returned to Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park this weekend.

The festival includes a three-boat race where teams of 20 paddle a 300-meter course. The festival also provides St. Louis-area residents an opportunity to learn about Chinese and Asian culture.

The ultimate goal of the festival is to raise money for Operation Family Help, which helps families facing healthcare crises.

Attendees had a chance to enjoy food, music, and arts and crafts. New this year was an eye-dotting ceremony, which helps awaken the spirit of the dragon before it takes the water.

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