Over the past two weekends, residents and visitors have been immersed in the exhilarating world of dragon boat racing. Each year, the city comes alive with the rhythmic beat of drums and the vibrant sweep of brightly adorned dragon boats during the Tuen Ng Festival. This was followed by last weekend’s highly anticipated International Dragon Boat Festival at the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade, which welcomed elite athletes from across the globe for a series of breathtaking, action-packed races.
The Tuen Ng Festival, steeped in centuries-old legend, remains one of Hong Kong’s most cherished cultural celebrations, traditionally observed on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. Across the city, communities gather to honour the memory of Qu Yuan, the revered poet who, according to legend, drowned himself in the Miluo River out of despair for his homeland. In tribute, villagers are said to have raced out in boats, beating drums to ward off evil spirits and tossing zongzi, or rice dumplings, into the river.
This poignant tale continues to inspire the festival’s signature traditions of dragon boat racing and sharing zongzi, a beloved culinary highlight of the festival. From the picturesque coasts and waterways of Stanley, Tai O, and Sai Kung to the riverside setting of Sha Tin, the hypnotic rhythm of the drums and the sight of ornately decorated dragon boats fill the air with excitement, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds.
Distinct from traditional celebrations, the International Dragon Boat Festival brought a fresh wave of excitement to Victoria Harbour as the iconic races made their eagerly awaited return to the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade. The event attracted thousands of athletes from around the globe. Spectators lined the promenade as crews competed fiercely against the stunning backdrop of the harbour’s magnificent skyline.
Now, with the boats docked and the last zongzi savored, Hong Kong reflects on two festivals where ancient customs and raw excitement merge seamlessly. The Tuen Ng Festival and the International Dragon Boat Festival have once again showcased the city’s enduring spirit of unity, pride, and celebration, testament to how tradition and innovation continue to shape Hong Kong’s unique cultural identity.
Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd
