Shekou dragon boat race to kick off Saturday on Central River

The Houhai Central River in Nanshan District is expected to transform into a vibrant hub of summer excitement this Saturday as the sixth Houhai Central River Fun Dragon Boat Race will be held alongside the opening ceremony of the Nanshan District Community Games.

Spectators gather along the Houhai Central River in Nanshan District during the Houhai Central River Fun Dragon Boat Race in 2025. This year's dragon boat carnival will feature nearly 700 athletes from 48 teams. Photos courtesy of Nanshan Subdistrict Office

Scheduled to kick off at 8:30 a.m., the event will feature 48 teams and approximately 700 athletes competing in 12-person standard dragon boats. Among the lineup is an international team composed of expatriate residents.

This year’s races will take place on the waters opposite the Houhai BabyCity mall, featuring a 400-meter straight-line return race for the general public and a newly introduced 200-meter straight-line sprint for teenage teams.

The youth category is a major highlight this year, providing a grand stage for students to showcase the skills they have mastered through the local “Dragon Boat Lessons in Schools” pilot program.

The day’s schedule is packed with high-energy competitions: beginning with the general public races from 9:05 a.m. to 10:50 a.m., followed by the youth category competitions from 11:10 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. After a midday break, community resident teams will take to the water from 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Participants paddle along the Houhai Central River in Nanshan District. Visitors will have the opportunity to try paddleboarding and kayaking during the sixth Houhai Central River Fun Dragon Boat Race.

Beyond the fierce paddling on the river, the event promises a "sensory feast" for spectators. The festivities will include a water sports parade and various traditional cultural performances along the banks. From intangible cultural heritage displays to community talent shows, the neighborhood is set to be filled with festive surprises.

Food enthusiasts can savor authentic Shekou flavors, as organizers will bring local culinary staples to the riverbank. A major highlight is the Guangning Wonton, a century-old intangible cultural heritage delicacy renowned for its paper-thin skin, fresh filling, and crystal-clear broth.

For those inspired by the racers, a dedicated water sports experience area will be open on the day of the event. Visitors will have the opportunity to try paddleboarding and kayaking, offering a truly immersive waterfront experience.