The Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade is supported by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust to conserve Hong Kong’s unique cultural heritage for future generations. Organised by the Tai O villagers, the Water Parade began with religious rituals, deity statues on small boats are then towed by dragon boats through the waterways of the village. Afterwards, the exciting dragon boat races are held. This year, you’re invited to Tai O to participate in this unique historical and cultural event. Mark the date!
In 2011, the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade was one of four traditional local activities inscribed onto the third National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in China. This colourful community festival has intense historic, social and cultural value and each year attracts a large number of residents and tourists alike who come to watch the traditional activities of this century-old ritual.
Each year the Dragon Boat Festival is held on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar; and in keeping with tradition, Tai O also holds the Dragon Boat Water Parade. Leading up to the Festival, paddlers from three fisherman’s associations will visit four temples, namely Yeung Hau, Tin Hau, Kwan Tei and Hung Shing and bring the deity statues out for worship. On the day of the Festival, small boats carrying the statues are towed by dragon boats along the local waterways, while residents living in stilt houses will burn incense along the way and pray for health and well-being. After the ceremony, the excitement of the dragon boat races begins!
If you want to enjoy the lively and exciting cultural heritage and competitive dragon boat races, don’t miss the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade. Join your family and friends and revel in the traditional atmosphere as you celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival together.
