The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, taking place June 27-28 along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, mark their 50th anniversary this year, with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) extending the festival to 13 days (June 19 – July 1). The event, a highlight of 'Hong Kong Summer Fun,' features over 220 teams from 16 countries and regions competing in Victoria Harbour, alongside the special 50th Anniversary Fishermen Invitational Cup and 50th Anniversary Championship.
The anniversary coincides with the 35th anniversary of both the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association and the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), which announced the relocation of its headquarters back to Hong Kong. The IDBF formally incorporated International Dragon Boat Federation Limited in Hong Kong on April 29, 2026. 'Incorporation in Hong Kong is not a conclusion, but a beginning,' said IDBF President Claudio Schermi. 'It anchors our Federation in the city where our international story started.'
The IDBF has also applied for funding under the HKSAR Government's Pilot Scheme to Strengthen the Presence of Hong Kong in Asian and International Sports Associations, which supports sports associations establishing headquarters in the city. Dr Peter Lam, Chairman of HKTB, said the festival offers an experience 'found only in Hong Kong' and showcases its position as the Events Capital of Asia.
Visitors can enjoy thematic activities along the Avenue of Stars, including a 22-metre traditional wooden dragon boat, a dragon boat-themed installation tied to the film Minions & Monsters, live music, and intangible cultural heritage performances such as Wing Chun, diabolo, and traditional Chinese instruments. The festival began on Tuen Ng Festival, commemorating the poet Qu Yuan, and concludes on July 1, the 29th anniversary of the HKSAR's establishment.
Traditional dragon boat treats like zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) are widely available during the period. The event underscores Hong Kong's role as the birthplace of modern international dragon boat racing and its global hub status.
