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Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival (8/12/2023 and 8/13/2023)
August 12, 2023 @ 8:00 am - August 13, 2023 @ 5:00 pm
FLUSHING MEADOWS PARK | FREE ADMISSION | RAIN OR SHINE
ABOUT THE HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL IN NEW YORK
The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York is an annual sporting and multicultural event held in August on Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, New York to celebrate the fifth moon (or the fifth month) of the lunar calendar. In addition to providing audiences with traditional Chinese foods and performances, the festival hosts over 120 dragon boat teams from across North America, making it one of the largest dragon boat festivals in the United States. Depending on the competitive division, teams compete for cash prizes, trophies and other prizes.
The Festival began in 1990 when the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York City promoted and organized the inaugural Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York, which was held on the Hudson River in Battery Park City. The Festival is now an independent non-profit company organized under the laws of the State of New York and receives its funding through sponsorships by various companies. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office continues to be a substantial supporter of the festival.
In addition to the change in corporate structure, the Festival’s fleet of dragon boats has grown from 4 teak wood dragon boats to over 30 dragon boats. Many of the boats are made of fiberglass. All the boats are approved by the International Dragon Boat Federation for international dragon boat racing.
The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York features events for the entire family including the NY Championship Race on Saturday and the US Dragon Boat Open Championship Race on Sunday, an opening parade, and youth, women’s, sponsors, media, and charity races. Moreover, an impressive arts and entertainment program will showcase some of the best multicultural artists in New York, including the Shaolin Temple Warrior Monks demonstrating Kung Fu, the Drum Spirit of China, and as well as other performers who will perform traditional music and dance from China, Mexico and Peru. Booths located around the main stage area will host folk art and craft demonstrations. And, of course, a food court will serve a culturally diverse menu. Please refer to our Events Schedule page for more information.