Thousands of people enjoyed the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2017 in London's Docklands on June 25 (London time) and helped raise money for Chinese charities in London.

     The festival was once again sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO), and was part of its programme of events to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. More details of the celebration activities organised by the London ETO can be found at www.hketolondon20.gov.hk.

     The London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is organised by the London Chinatown Lions Club, the London Chinese Community Centre and the Hong Kong Executives Club. More than 40 dragon boat teams took part in a full day of racing. The teams were drawn from all walks of life, from the local community and from businesses, public organisations and charities, and also included British Dragon Boat Association teams.

     Addressing the opening ceremony, the Director-General of the London ETO, Ms Priscilla To, said that dragon boat racing dates back more than 2,000 years, and since Hong Kong held the first international dragon boat festival three decades ago, it has developed into a truly global event.

     "In taking part in this festival we join with many other dragon boat festivals taking place around the globe. Dragon boat racing is emblematic of the strength, energy and competitiveness that Hong Kong is renowned for. Over the past 20 years, under the successful implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle, Hong Kong has continued to thrive as Asia's world city. We maintain our unique characteristics of blending East and West. Thus, Hong Kong maintains a rich Chinese heritage, but with a strong international and cosmopolitan outlook," Ms To said.

     Apart from racing, the festival also featured cultural performances organised by Beat Nations, City Showcase, Chinese Youth Radio and Spectrum Radio. These included lion and dragon dances, live music from local and UK pop music acts and martial arts and tai chi demonstrations. There was also a food festival allowing people to try traditional food from Asia and all over the world.

     More information about the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2017 is available at www.dragonboatfestival.co.uk.

Ends/Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Issued at HKT 19:56

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