Thousands of people enjoyed the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2018, sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO) on June 3 (London time). The festival took place in London's Docklands and helped raise money for Chinese charities in London.
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. Thirty-three 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.
"Celebrating the Dragon Boat festival has been a significant part of Hong Kong's lifestyle. Nowadays, in many places around the world where there is a major Hong Kong community, we can find people celebrating this traditional festival. So, no wonder here in London, the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival has also become a key event in the city's calendar.
"Dragon boat racing is emblematic of the strength, energy and competitiveness that Hong Kong is renowned for," Ms To added.
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 2018 is available at www.dragonboatfestival.co.uk.
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