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Living in SZ | Get ready to paddle and play on Xinzhou River

Writer: Song Yingwen  |  Editor: Zhang Chanwen  |  From:   |  Updated: 2024-05-27

In the blink of an eye, the adrenaline-pumping dragon boat race is on the horizon! Who can resist witnessing a thunderous round of dragon boat races on the Duanwu Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival? 

A scene at last year's dragon boat race on the Xinzhou River in Futian District. Photo from Dute News

An electrifying dragon boat race on the Xinzhou River took Futian by storm last year. With over 100,000 people cheering live and around 1.6 million viewers online, it set the bar high. This year, get ready for a riveting ride because it's back, with the ambition to be better than ever.  

Set to take place at the Topchain Link (同创汇) section of the Xinzhou River in Futian, the Dragon Boat Festival events are leveling up big time this year, blending traditional cultural heritage with elements of creativity, trendy experiences, and new media. Get set to celebrate this traditional Chinese festival in a melting pot of diverse entertainment. 

What's in store? 

Hold onto your oars! Coming from Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, 12 dragon boat teams, including 10 men's teams and 2 women's teams, will battle it out in four rounds of heart-pounding races. Brace yourself for the visually stunning spectacle of dragon boat racing and waterborne excitement. 

Rowers paddle to the drumbeats at last year's dragon boat race on the Xinzhou River. Photo from Dute News

For those who want to experience more than being only a spectator, dive into the action with the special dragon boat experience segment where professional paddlers will guide you in getting hands-on with the art of paddling. Here they can expect to experience firsthand the charm of this traditional Chinese sport! 

Beyond the races 

After the intense competition, wind down with family and friends as you enjoy a showcase of artistic performances. From flash mobs to street dance, rap battles and more, the entertainment is as diverse as it gets. 

Dancers perform on a stage near Xinzhou River. The performance was a sideline event of last year's dragon boat race on the river. Liu Xudong

Explore 25 unique stalls featuring everything from traditional customs like herbal baths to modern twists like DIY bouquets, trendy Hanfu clothing, and more. Indulge in dragon boat-themed treats, colorful crafts, and interactive experiences galore. 

A kid looks at figurines made from dough in a market near Xinzhou River. The market was a sideline event of last year's dragon boat race on the river. Liu Xudong

Join the fun  

Eager to dive into the dragon boat frenzy? To ensure a smooth and top-notch experience for all, the event requires reservation. Stay tuned for booking details on the “幸福福田,” “福田文体中心,” and “深圳水务” official WeChat accounts. Get ready to book your spot promptly. 

More dragon boat races 

In addition to the dragon boat race on the Xinzhou River in Futian, there are several dragon boat races in other districts to entertain visitors to this tradition Chinese festival. Here is a list of the main events:  

Guanlan River, Longhua District 

Time: Scheduled between June 1-3 

Venue: River section between District Government Bridge to Renmin Bridge, Guanlan River, Longhua District 

Booking: Official WeChat account "龙华文体云” (bookings are open at the end of May) 

Nan'ao, Dapeng New Area 

Time: June 7-8 

Venue: Yueliang Bay, Nan'ao, Dapeng New Area

Booking: Details are yet to be announced

Dasha River, Nanshan District 

Time: June 10 

Venue: Dashahe Ecological Corridor, Nanshan District 

Booking: Details are yet to be announced 

Guangming District 

Time: June 1 

Venue: Guangming Section of Maozhou River, Guangming District

Booking: Details are yet to be announced  

In the blink of an eye, the adrenaline-pumping dragon boat race is on the horizon! Who can resist witnessing a thunderous round of dragon boat races on the Duanwu Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival?