* RACE REGISTRATION CLOSES 5 MAY *
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SUNDAY 30TH JUNE 2019
ROYAL DOCKS ADVENTURE/LONDON REGATTA CENTRE
DOCKSIDE ROAD, LONDON E16 2QT
10AM – 6PM
One of the UK’s most exciting cross-cultural sporting occasions, the annual London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival returns to London’s Regatta Centre on Sunday 30th June 2019.
The free, family-friendly, fun day out welcomes 10,000 visitors each year from across the UK and overseas, for Europe’s most prestigious dragon boat racing event.
London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival provides an excellent opportunity to experience Chinese culture in the British capital. Throughout the day, the spectacular action out on the water will be provided by more than 40 competing club, corporate and amateur teams. Drama unfolds as novices do battle with some of the UK’s greatest paddlers, as well as the elements, to take home 6 cups. On land, the event’s food festival will represent the culinary tastes of South East Asia, with each country in the region represented, meanwhile entertainment including live music will be provided on the East West Festival stage (showcasing new artists from the East and West), martial arts displays, and traditional Chinese lion dancing.
2019 marks the 24th London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival organised by London Chinatown Lions Club, the fund-raising event donates proceeds to the club’s nominated charities, and is supported by Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, The Hong Kong Executives Club and The London Chinatown Chinese Community Centre.
REGISTER FOR THE DRAGON BOAT RACE:
Everyone is encouraged to participate - seasoned rowers to beginners alike. Teams from companies, organisations and community groups, all take part in a fantastic showcase for what is one of Britain’s fastest growing water sports. Race registration and information on team sponsorship packages can be found via: www.dragonboatfestival.co.uk. Enquiries to dragons@blencathra.com.
SPONSORS & STALLHOLDER APPLICATIONS:
Interested sponsors and stallholders have until 5 May to apply via: dragons@blencathra.com.
ABOUT THE 24TH LONDON HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL:
Dragon boat festivals originated in ancient southern central China some 2,500 years ago along the banks of Yangtze River, around the same era the Olympic Games began in Greece. Today dragon boat racing is one of the most popular water sports both in China and internationally.
Twenty three years ago, London Chinatown Lions Club organised the first Dragon Boat Festival in London Docklands as a fundraiser for Chinese schools around the M25 area. With the support of Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, the festival is co-promoted by the London Chinese Community Centre and the Hong Kong Executives. The principal sponsor is Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London. This event has developed into a major cultural event in the capital, attracting up to 10,000 attendees each year.
THE VENUE:
Royal Docks Adventure: Dockside Road, London E16 2QT
RDA is situated opposite London City Airport, on the opposite side of the docks and next to Connaught Bridge. All Dragon Boat team members, visitors, guests and sponsors are encouraged to use public transport where possible.
The nearest train station is Royal Albert using Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
