The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races return this weekend (June 27-28) with a milestone celebration: the 50th anniversary of the event, alongside the 35th anniversaries of the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). To mark the occasion, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) extended the festival to 13 days (June 19 – July 1), starting on the Tuen Ng Festival and ending on the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Dr Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, said the festival not only runs over a longer period but also features a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment, offering an experience found only in Hong Kong. More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete in Victoria Harbour, with new events including the 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 intangible cultural heritage performances such as Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, and traditional musical instruments.
The IDBF has formally incorporated as International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong as of 29 April 2026. 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.
The Dragon Boat Festival dates back over two thousand years, commemorating the poet Qu Yuan. According to legend, villagers raced out on dragon boats to scare away fish from eating Qu's body. The tradition continues with races across Hong Kong, each reflecting local neighbourhood characteristics. Traditional treats like zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) are widely available during the festival.
