About Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival, known as η«―εη― (Duanwu Jie) in Hong Kong, is celebrated to commemorate the ancient poet Qu Yuan, who drowned himself in the Miluo River as a protest against corruption. This holiday is marked by various cultural activities, including dragon boat racing and eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves).
Dragon Boat Festival is a public holiday in Hong Kong. In 2025, it falls on Saturday, May 31. In the local language, this holiday is known as "η«―εη―". This holiday does not fall on the same date every year β its date varies annually.
This is a national holiday, observed throughout all of Hong Kong. Most businesses, government offices, and schools are closed on this day.
Traditions & Customs
In Hong Kong, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated with vibrant dragon boat races held in various harbors, attracting both local and international teams. Families also prepare and enjoy zongzi, which are traditionally made with glutinous rice and filled with various ingredients, symbolizing the community's respect for Qu Yuan.
Did You Know?
Hong Kong hosts one of the largest and most famous dragon boat races in the world, drawing thousands of spectators each year.
Holiday Details
| Holiday Name | Dragon Boat Festival |
| Local Name | η«―εη― |
| Date | Saturday, May 31, 2025 |
| Country |  Hong Kong |
| Type | Public |
| Scope | National β observed throughout the country |
| Fixed Date | No β date varies annually |
Holiday Greeting
"η«―εθεΏ«δΉ (Duanwu Jie Kuai Le)"
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in zongzi?
Zongzi can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including pork, mushrooms, salted egg yolk, and chestnuts. The fillings often vary by region and personal preference, making each zongzi unique.
Are there any specific rituals performed during the Dragon Boat Festival?
Yes, many families hang up pouches of herbs and wear colorful silk threads to ward off evil spirits and ensure good health. These rituals are believed to protect against disease and misfortune.
How long do the dragon boat races last?
The dragon boat races typically take place over a weekend, with various heats and finals culminating in a grand finale. Each race lasts about 2 to 3 minutes, depending on the distance and the teams' performance.
When is Dragon Boat Festival 2025 in Hong Kong?
Dragon Boat Festival 2025 in Hong Kong falls on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
Is Dragon Boat Festival a public holiday in Hong Kong?
Yes, Dragon Boat Festival is a public holiday in Hong Kong. It is observed nationwide.
Is Dragon Boat Festival on the same date every year?
Dragon Boat Festival does not have a fixed date and varies from year to year.
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