Hong Kong is set to host the 50th anniversary of the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races on June 27-28, 2026, along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. The event, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), has been expanded to a 13-day festival running from June 19 to July 1, coinciding with the Tuen Ng Festival and the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
This year's races feature over 220 teams from 16 countries and regions, competing in the iconic setting of Victoria Harbour. New additions include the 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, paying homage to the traditional roots of dragon boat racing. The festival also marks the 35th anniversary of both the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), which announced earlier this year the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong.
Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, described the festival as the headline international flagship event of "Hong Kong Summer Fun," offering a longer period, stronger race line-up, and more vibrant entertainment programs than previous years. The event aims to showcase Hong Kong's position as the Events Capital of Asia while providing a unique experience for locals and visitors.
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 like the ruan and guzheng.
The IDBF's decision to incorporate in Hong Kong on April 29, 2026, marks a significant step in its long-term global strategy. "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," said Claudio Schermi, President of the IDBF. The federation 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, dating back over 2,000 years, commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who is said to have committed suicide by throwing himself into the Luo River. Villagers raced out in dragon boats, banging gongs and drums to scare away creatures from eating his body. Today, the tradition continues with dragon boat competitions across Hong Kong, each reflecting local characteristics. Traditional treats like zongzi — glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves — are widely available during the festival.
For more information, visit the official Brand Hong Kong website.
