Hong Kong’s vibrant culture took centre stage at the 36th Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York, as more than 170 teams and 1,800 paddlers gathered for two days of racing and festivities.

The event also marked the 40th anniversary of Hong Kong gifting traditional teak wood dragon boats to cities across North America, helping bring the centuries-old Chinese tradition to the continent. A special invitational race and dragon boat display celebrated the milestone.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on August 8, New York ETO Director Maisie Ho said the festival has brought people together through sport for 36 years, highlighting Hong Kong’s heritage, teamwork and cosmopolitan spirit.

The festival also featured Hong Kong street food, music, martial arts and arts and crafts at the New York ETO booth.

The celebration comes as the International Dragon Boat Federation returns its global headquarters to Hong Kong, while its World Dragon Boat Racing Championships will return to the city next year for the first time since 1997.