The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, will take place on June 27-28 along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. The event, co-organized by the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, also marks the 35th anniversary of both the association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). The IDBF added to the significance by announcing earlier this year the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong, with formal incorporation of International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in the city on April 29, 2026.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) extended the annual Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival period to 13 days, from June 19 to July 1, starting on the historic Tuen Ng Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) and concluding on the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, said the Festival features a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment programs than in previous years, offering an experience found only in Hong Kong while showcasing the city's position as the Events Capital of Asia.
More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete in Victoria Harbour. This year 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 new film Minions & Monsters, live music performances, and intangible cultural heritage performances such as martial art Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, and traditional musical instruments ruan and guzheng.
The IDBF's relocation to Hong Kong is a strategic step in its long-term global strategy. 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 and strengthens our ability to serve our members and the global dragon boat family." The IDBF has applied for funding under the Pilot Scheme to Strengthen the Presence of Hong Kong in Asian and International Sports Associations, introduced by the HKSAR Government's Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau 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. According to legend, villagers raced out on dragon boats, banging gongs and drums to scare away fish from eating Qu's body. Traditional treats like zongzi—glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves—are widely available during the festival. For more information, visit Brand Hong Kong.
