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

The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races return to Victoria Harbour this weekend (June 27-28) with a milestone celebration: the 50th anniversary of the event, alongside the 35th anniversaries of the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). The IDBF announced earlier this year the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong, a move that underscores the city's role as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing.

Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), the festivities have been extended to 13 days (June 19 – July 1), starting on the historic Tuen Ng Festival and concluding on the 29th anniversary of the Establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Dr. Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKTB, emphasized that the extended period, stronger race line-up, and vibrant entertainment offer an experience unique to Hong Kong, showcasing its position as the Events Capital of Asia.

More than 220 teams from 16 countries and regions will compete in the world-renowned setting of Victoria Harbour. New this year are the 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and the 50th Anniversary Championship, paying tribute to the traditional spirit of dragon boat racing. Along the Avenue of Stars, visitors 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 Wing Chun, Chinese juggling diabolo, and traditional musical instruments ruan and guzheng.

The IDBF's formal incorporation in Hong Kong on April 29, 2026, marks a significant step in its global strategy. "Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning. It anchors our Federation in the city where our international story started," said IDBF President Claudio Schermi. 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 associations establishing headquarters in the city.

The Dragon Boat Festival, dating back over two thousand years, commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. Legend holds that villagers raced out on boats, banging gongs and drums to scare away creatures from eating his body. This tradition continues with competitions across Hong Kong, each reflecting local characteristics. Traditional treats like zongzi—glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves—are widely available during the festival.