2026 Dragon Boat Festival In Hong Kong

Updated 18 January 2026

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The 2026 Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong, known as the Tuen Ng Festival, is a vibrant celebration marked by dragon boat races and the consumption of traditional rice dumplings called zongzi. The festival is set to occur on June 19, 2026 which is a public holiday in Hong Kong. This day is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, in honor of the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan.

One of the major highlights of the festival in Hong Kong is the series of dragon boat races. Two notable events are the Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships at Stanley Main Beach and the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races. The latter takes place on 27–28 June 2026, and features an exciting lineup of races along the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade, drawing thousands of athletes and spectators from around the world.

Additionally, local festivities in various parts of Hong Kong, such as Tai O, Aberdeen, and Cheung Chau, offer a more traditional experience with dragon boat races conducted in historical settings and alongside cultural parades.

Visitors can expect a festive atmosphere with food markets, music, and vibrant local traditions that offer a deep dive into Hong Kong’s cultural heritage. This festival not only showcases the thrilling sports of dragon boat racing but also serves as a cultural celebration that blends modern excitement with ancient traditions.

Why Do Locals Eat Rice Dumplings During The Dragon Boat Festival?

Eating rice dumplings, or zongzi, during the Dragon Boat Festival is a tradition steeped in history and symbolism. The custom is closely linked to the festival’s origins, which commemorate the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan. According to legend, when Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River, local people raced out in their boats to try and save him or retrieve his body. To prevent fish and evil spirits from harming his body, they threw rice dumplings into the river.

These rice dumplings, made of glutinous rice stuffed with various fillings and wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, are eaten to honour Qu Yuan’s memory and to invoke the protection of their communities and families. The act of making and eating zongzi has thus evolved into a significant part of the Dragon Boat Festival, symbolizing unity, protection, and respect for the ancestors and community.

This tradition not only commemorates a revered figure in Chinese history but also serves as a time for families to come together, often making zongzi in groups, reinforcing bonds and celebrating their cultural heritage.

How Can Domestic Helpers Prepare The Rice Dumplings?

Domestic helpers can prepare rice dumplings (zongzi) for the Dragon Boat Festival by following these general steps:

Gather Ingredients: The primary ingredients for zongzi include glutinous rice, bamboo leaves (or reed leaves), and fillings such as pork, salted egg yolk, chestnuts, and mushrooms. Depending on preference, the fillings can vary widely, with options for both savory and sweet versions.
Soak the Rice and Leaves: The glutinous rice needs to be soaked in water for several hours or overnight to ensure it cooks properly. Similarly, bamboo or reed leaves used for wrapping the dumplings should be soaked to make them pliable and easy to fold.
Prepare the Fillings: Cook any raw ingredients such as meat or mushrooms. Seasonings such as soy sauce, oyster sauce, or sugar can be added for flavour.
Wrap the Dumplings: Lay out a couple of the soaked leaves in a cross shape, place a few tablespoons of the soaked rice in the center, add the filling, then top with more rice. Fold the leaves over to encase the contents fully, forming a pyramid or rectangular shape. Secure the dumpling with kitchen twine.
Cook the Dumplings: Zongzi are traditionally boiled or steamed. Boiling is more common and can take from 1 to 4 hours depending on the size of the dumplings. The cooking process allows the flavours to meld together and the rice to become tender.
Serving: Once cooked, zongzi can be served hot or at room temperature. They are typically eaten as is, but some people might prefer dipping them in sugar or soy sauce, depending on whether they are sweet or savory.

This activity not only helps domestic helpers engage in the cultural traditions of their employers but also allows them to share a bit of their culinary skills. Making zongzi can be a fun and collaborative activity for the household, enhancing mutual cultural appreciation. For specific recipes and more detailed instructions, it’s great to consult a cooking guide or culinary website dedicated to traditional Chinese recipes.

How Can Domestic Workers Celebrate With Their Employer?

Domestic helpers in Hong Kong can celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival with their employers in several meaningful ways that foster a shared cultural experience:

Participating in Festival Preparations: Domestic helpers can be involved in preparing for the festival by helping to make or buy zongzi (rice dumplings), which are traditionally eaten during this festival. They can also assist in decorating the home with festive items and symbols related to the Dragon Boat Festival.
Joining in the Celebrations: If the family attends Dragon Boat races, domestic helpers can be invited to join. This is a great way for them to experience the festive atmosphere, witness the races first-hand, and enjoy the local customs alongside their employer’s family.
Cooking and Sharing a Meal: Domestic helpers can cook a special meal from their own culture to share with their employers on this day, or they could prepare traditional Chinese festival dishes. This exchange of cultural culinary traditions can be a delightful and inclusive way to celebrate together.
Learning and Sharing Stories: Employers can encourage domestic helpers to share stories or customs from their own cultures that may have similarities to the Dragon Boat Festival, such as boat racing or celebrating seasonal festivals. Conversely, domestic helpers can learn about the historical significance of the Dragon Boat Festival and the story of Qu Yuan, which is central to the festival.
Crafting Together: Engaging in crafting activities like making dragon-themed decorations or other festival crafts can be a fun activity for families and helpers to do together, enhancing the festive spirit.
Giving a Day Off: Recognizing the hard work of domestic helpers by giving them a day off during or after the festival can also be a considerate gesture, allowing them the opportunity to celebrate independently with friends or community groups, or simply to rest.

By participating together in these activities, domestic helpers and their employers can build stronger relationships and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures. Celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival together can be a memorable and enriching experience for everyone involved.