The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, now in its 50th year, will take place June 27-28 along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui, with an expanded 13-day festival running from June 19 to July 1. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the event coincides with 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.
More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions are set to compete in the world-renowned setting of Victoria Harbour. This year introduces the special 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, honoring the traditional roots of dragon boat racing. Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, described the festival as the headline international flagship event of "Hong Kong Summer Fun," featuring a stronger race line-up and more vibrant entertainment than previous years. He noted that the festival offers an experience found only in Hong Kong, showcasing the city's position as the Events Capital of Asia.
Visitors along the Avenue of Stars can enjoy 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 martial art Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, and traditional instruments ruan and guzheng.
The IDBF's relocation to Hong Kong marks a significant step in its long-term global strategy. The federation formally incorporated as International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong on April 29, 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 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. This initiative supports Asian and international sports associations establishing headquarters in the city.
The Dragon Boat Festival dates back over 2,000 years, commemorating the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. According to legend, Qu Yuan committed suicide in the Luo River, and villagers raced out on dragon boats, banging gongs to scare away fish. The tradition continues with dragon boat competitions across Hong Kong. Traditional treats like zongzi—glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves—are widely available during the festival.
The 50th anniversary underscores Hong Kong's role as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing and highlights its strengths as a global hub city. The extended festival period, concluding on July 1—the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the HKSAR—further emphasizes the city's cultural and historical significance. The event not only attracts international teams and spectators but also reinforces Hong Kong's appeal as a premier destination for sports and cultural tourism.
