The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races will commemorate their 50th anniversary this weekend, June 27-28, with an expanded 13-day festival running from June 19 to July 1. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the event features over 220 teams from 16 countries and regions competing along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. This year's milestone also marks the 35th anniversary of both the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), which announced the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong earlier this year.
Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, highlighted that the festival not only spans a longer period but also boasts a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment programs than previous years. The event introduces the special 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, paying tribute to the traditional spirit of dragon boat racing. Visitors can enjoy thematic activities along the Avenue of Stars, including a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat, a dragon boat-themed installation in collaboration with the film Minions & Monsters, live music, and performances of intangible cultural heritage such as Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, and traditional musical instruments.
The IDBF's decision to re-establish its headquarters in Hong Kong underscores the city's reputation as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing. Claudio Schermi, President of the IDBF, stated, "Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning. It anchors our Federation in the city where our international story started and strengthens our ability to serve our members and the global dragon boat family." The IDBF has applied for funding under the HKSAR Government's Pilot Scheme to Strengthen the Presence of Hong Kong in Asian and International Sports Associations, an initiative designed to support sports associations establishing headquarters in the city.
The Dragon Boat Festival, dating back over two thousand years, commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. Traditionally held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, the festival features dragon boat races and the consumption of zongzi, glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races have become a flagship event of "Hong Kong Summer Fun," showcasing the city as the Events Capital of Asia.
For more information, visit the official Brand Hong Kong website.
