Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races Celebrate 50th Anniversary with Expanded Festival and IDBF Headquarters Relocation

The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, now in their 50th year, are set to take place June 27-28 along Victoria Harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui, marking a significant milestone for the sport and the city. The event, organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), has been expanded into a 13-day Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival (June 19 – July 1), coinciding with the historic Tuen Ng Festival and the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

This year's celebration also marks the 35th anniversary of both the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). The IDBF recently announced 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. “Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning,” said Claudio Schermi, IDBF President, emphasizing that the move anchors the federation in the city where international dragon boat racing began.

Over 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete in the iconic Victoria Harbour setting. New this year are the 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, paying homage to the sport's traditional roots. The festival also features 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, diabolo, and traditional Chinese instruments.

Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, described the festival as a flagship event of “Hong Kong Summer Fun,” offering a unique experience for locals and visitors while showcasing Hong Kong as the Events Capital of Asia. The extended festival period and enhanced programmes aim to attract global attention.

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, an initiative supporting sports bodies in establishing headquarters in the city. This move reinforces Hong Kong's status as a global hub and its deep connection to dragon boat racing, which dates back over 2,000 years to the legend of poet Qu Yuan.

The traditional dragon boat festival commemorates Qu Yuan's sacrifice, with villagers racing boats and beating drums to protect his body. Today, the tradition continues across Hong Kong, with each race reflecting local characteristics. Festive treats like zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) remain popular during the period.