A Guide to The Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong
Dragon Boat Festival combines thrilling races with rich traditions. Beyond the excitement of watching or participating, this holiday on May 31st carries deep cultural significance rooted in ancient customs worth exploring.
The Origins Of The Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival originated in Ancient China’s Zhou dynasty (1050-221 BCE), celebrating poet Qu Yuan of the Chu kingdom. After opposing an alliance with the corrupt Qin kingdom, he was exiled for treason. When Qin overthrew Chu, a devastated Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River. His followers raced boats to find him, dropped rice balls to protect his body from fish, and made noise with drums and gongs. This tribute evolved into today’s festival, now celebrated across Hong Kong, China, and Southeast Asia.
Why A Dragon Boat?
In Chinese culture, the dragon—the sole mythical creature among the zodiac animals — symbolises royalty and governs water. The Dragon Boat Festival occurs on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, traditionally considered unlucky. People seek the dragon’s protection against misfortune during this period. The dragon-headed boats are believed to awaken this powerful creature, inviting its protective blessing over everyone at the festival.
Where To Watch The Dragon Boat Race
- Aberdeen Dragon Boat Race
When & where: 8am to 4pm at Aberdeen Promenade/Aberdeen West Typhoon Shelter. - Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships
When & where: 8am to 5pm at Stanley Main Beach. - Sai Kung Tuen Ng Festival
When & where: 8am to 1:30pm at Sai Kung Waterfront and Promenade. - Sha Tin Dragon Boat Race
When & where: 8am to 1pm at Shing Mun River (Banyan Bridge-Sha Yin Bridge). - Tai Po Dragon Boat Race
When & where: 8:30am to 1pm at Tai Po Waterfront Park Promenade - Tuen Mun Dragon Boat Race
When & where: 9am to 2pm at Castle Peak Bay Typhoon Shelter, Area 44, Tuen Mun.