The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races celebrate their 50th anniversary this weekend (June 27-28) with an expanded programme, showcasing the city's enduring legacy as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing. The event, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), has been extended to a 13-day festival running from June 19 to July 1, coinciding with the historic Tuen Ng Festival and the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete on Victoria Harbour, including special 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and 50th Anniversary Championship races. The festival features a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat on the Avenue of Stars, a dragon boat-themed installation in collaboration with the film Minions & Monsters, live music, and intangible cultural heritage performances such as Wing Chun, Chinese juggling (diabolo), and traditional musical instruments ruan and guzheng.
Dr Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, said the festival offers an experience found only in Hong Kong, reinforcing the city's position as the Events Capital of Asia. The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) formally incorporated as International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong on April 29, 2026, relocating its headquarters back to the city. IDBF President Claudio Schermi stated, 'Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning. It anchors our Federation in the city where our international story started.'
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,' which supports sports associations establishing headquarters in the city. This move highlights Hong Kong's strengths as a global hub and its commitment to fostering international sports.
The Dragon Boat Festival, dating back over 2,000 years, commemorates poet Qu Yuan, who sacrificed himself in the Luo River. Traditional dragon boat treats like zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) are widely available during the festive period. For more information, visit Brand Hong Kong.
