The Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, co-organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association (HKCDBA), will return to Victoria Harbour on June 7 and 8.
This year’s event is expected to be the most competitive to date, with more than 190 teams and 4,500 athletes from 12 countries and regions, including Malaysia, Japan, Canada, Egypt and Qatar, competing across 19 races.
HKCDBA chairman Arnold Chung said the event, recognised as one of the most established and competitive international dragon boat races, attracts participants from around the world.
A new Secondary Schools Championship will be introduced to encourage youth involvement in the sport, while the Disciplinary Forces Championship will return, featuring teams from Hong Kong’s disciplined services.
The races are a flagship event under the HKTB’s Hong Kong Cultural Beat campaign, which promotes the city’s cultural calendar through festivals, performances and heritage events.
Running from May 31 to June 8, East Tsim Sha Tsui will host a day-and-night dragon boat carnival. Highlights include the Dragon Boat Food Lane at the Avenue of Stars and themed photo spots featuring Ocean Park Hong Kong’s panda mascots. During race weekend, activities will extend to Urban Council Centenary Garden, with live race broadcasts and a Beer Garden operated in partnership with San Miguel Brewery Hong Kong. Vouchers for complimentary draught beer will be available at HKTB Visitor Centres or on-site, while stocks last.
Flash mob performances by Canadian troupe Cirque du Soleil will also take place during the carnival. In addition, the HKTB is partnering with the Tsim Sha Tsui East Property Developers Association to offer dining and retail promotions at over 20 nearby outlets, including hotel discounts of up to 30 per cent.
The Dragon Boat Festival is recognised by UNESCO as part of the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The event coincides with the launch of Hong Kong’s first Intangible Cultural Heritage Month in June.
Sun Life Hong Kong Limited CEO Clement Lam said: “Dragon boat racing is not just a traditional festival activity, but also a vivid embodiment of unity, collaboration, and unyielding spirit.”
“The event offers visitors and locals a blend of cultural activities and celebrations steeped in Hong Kong’s east-meets-west heritage, enriching the city’s potential for mega-event tourism,” added Dane Cheng, executive director, HKTB.
