The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, a flagship event of the city's summer calendar, marks its 50th anniversary this year with an extended 13-day festival 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 Victoria Harbour, with special races including the 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship. This year also celebrates the 35th anniversary of both the co-organizer, Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), which earlier this year announced the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong.
The significance of this milestone extends beyond the races. The IDBF formally incorporated the International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong on April 29, 2026, a strategic move that IDBF President Claudio Schermi described as anchoring the federation in the city where its international story began. 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, designed to support sports bodies establishing headquarters in the city. This underscores Hong Kong's role as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing and its position as a global hub.
The festival, part of "Hong Kong Summer Fun," offers a packed programme along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Visitors can explore 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 including Wing Chun, Chinese juggling, and traditional musical instruments. Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, emphasized that the extended festival and stronger race line-up showcase Hong Kong as the Events Capital of Asia.
The Dragon Boat Festival itself dates back over 2,000 years, commemorating the poet Qu Yuan. According to legend, villagers raced out on dragon boats to scare away fish from his body, a tradition that continues today. Traditional treats like zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) are widely available during the festival. The event highlights Hong Kong's unique cultural heritage and its ability to host world-class international events.
