The Eye Dotting Ceremony

This year's eye dotting ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 15th, at 8:30AM at Thompson Boat Center.

Chinese Emperors of old called themselves ‘Dragons.’ Dragon boats have good spirits dedicated to providing enjoyment for the racers. Before the races commence a Taoist Priest will offer prayers to the spirits of the dragon boats.

The priest then makes offerings of fruit, jasmine tea, alcohol and rice. These offerings appease the spirits of the water and calm them in preparation for the racing ahead. If that was not done, legend has it that the Water Gods would clash with the Dragon spirits of the boats, with potentially disastrous consequences.

Also offered at this time is symbolic money, bank notes from the Bank of Hell. The smoke from these notes goes to Heaven and appeases the Gods to ensure safety and good racing. He will also throw some notes on to the water for the Sea Gods. Having warded off evil spirits with his earlier prayers, the priest can now bring the dragon boats to life and make them strong for the racing ahead.

Finally, having successfully resuscitated the ‘dragons,’ the priest offers thanks to heaven and the Gods, paving the way for future successful races.

The boats are now ready to do battle!