Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York 2025: Your Ultimate Guide 🐉

Photography courtesy of HKDBF Facebook

Looking for one of the most colorful and exciting free summer events in NYC? The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York is back on Saturday, August 9 and Sunday, August 10, 2025, bringing Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens to life with thrilling boat races, live performances, cultural traditions, and incredible food.

This long-running annual festival celebrates the ancient Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing while showcasing music, dance, and martial arts from around the world. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun weekend or a tourist searching for authentic things to do in NYC in August, this event is a must.

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2025 Schedule & Highlights

Saturday, August 9

• 10:30 AM – Chinese Music Ensemble of New York – Traditional Cantonese music performed on authentic instruments.

• 11:30 AM – Opening Ceremonies – Dragon Dance, team parade, and the famous eye-dotting ceremony to awaken the dragons.

• 12:30 PM – Yut Violinist – An electrifying EDM and violin fusion performance.

• 1:00 PM – Latin Jazz Express – Music honoring legends like Tito Puente and Dizzy Gillespie.

• 2:00 PM – Valerie Green/Dance Entropy – A movement-based healing ritual.

• 3:00 PM – Manhattan Taiko, Shamisen & Japanese Folk Dance – Powerful drumming meets graceful folk dance.

• 4:00 PM – NY Shaolin Temple Kung Fu Center – Martial arts with jaw-dropping skill.

• All Day – Master Storyteller Jonathan Kruk sharing dragon boat legends.

Sunday, August 10

• 11:00 AM – Dance China NY – Chinese dance and Beijing opera.

• 12:00 PM – Manhattan Taiko, Shamisen & Japanese Folk Dance – Thunderous drumming and cultural fusion.

• 1:00 PM – Daisy Jopling – Internationally acclaimed violinist.

• 2:00 PM – Chinese Music Ensemble of New York – More traditional instrument magic.

• 3:00 PM – Cantonese Pop Concert – Echo Chan and guests performing beloved hits.

• 4:00 PM – NY Shaolin Temple Kung Fu Center – Closing martial arts performance.

• All Day – Jonathan Kruk telling the stories behind the races.

Location, Admission & Tips

Where: Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, Queens, NYAdmission: Free for all attendees

Insider Tips for the Dragon Boat Festival:

• Arrive early for the best views of the boat races.

• Bring sunscreen, water, and a blanket for comfort throughout the day.

• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking between the race area, stage, and food stalls.

• Try the food vendors — the variety is a huge part of the festival experience.

• Use public transportation to avoid parking hassles.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It:The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival NYC isn’t just about racing — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and summer in New York. Between the sound of pounding drums, the sight of dragon boats gliding across the water, and the smell of sizzling street food, it’s one of the most vibrant August events in NYC.

Mark your calendar, grab your friends, and head to Queens for one of the city’s most unforgettable weekends.

We’ll see you by the water’s edge. Maybe there'll be a Dragon Warrior sighting. 🐉

To learn more about the event visit their website at The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York.

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