Now that the May Day holiday is all done and dusted, attention is turning to the next major festival, the Dragon Boat Festival, which this year offers a full three-day break from Saturday, May 31 to Monday, June 2, without any compensatory workdays.
It’s the final public holiday before the long October National Day–Mid-Autumn Festival break, so you really should try to make the most out of it.
In Haikou, the highlight will be the 2025 “Haikou Cup” International Dragon Boat Invitational, featuring days of high-energy races, cultural exhibitions, and community festivities.
Highlights: The 2025 “Haikou Cup” International Dragon Boat Invitational
Cultural Experience Week: May 24–30
Race Days: May 31 – June 1
Location:
The 2025 “Haikou Cup” International Dragon Boat Invitational will be held along 海甸溪 (Hǎidiàn Xī), the stretch of river specifically between Century Bridge (世纪大桥) and Renmin Bridge (人民桥) in Haikou.
The event brings together dragon boat teams from China and abroad to compete in three race categories:
- Open Group: 1000-meter straight course
- Local Group: 500-meter straight course
- Folk Group: Mixed community and amateur teams
All teams will race in traditional 22-person dragon boats, combining technical discipline with festive spirit. The site will be equipped with advanced timing systems and professional refereeing to ensure fairness throughout the competition.
Leading up to the races, spectators can watch team training sessions and explore a cultural market featuring creative products and demonstrations of intangible cultural heritage. Recreational water sports activities will also be available for the public to experience firsthand.
Participation is open to the public, and both domestic and international teams are welcome to register.
Registration Contact: Teacher Rong – WeChat/Phone: 16689532595
A Seasonal Celebration for Locals and Visitors Alike
While Dragon Boat Festival events will take place across Hainan, Haikou’s combination of athletic competition and rich cultural programming makes it a standout event. From traditional crafts and street food to high-level sport, the “Haikou Cup” offers something for residents, tourists, and culture lovers alike.
With no further holidays until October, the 2025 Dragon Boat Festival is an ideal time to take in the summer atmosphere and experience one of China’s oldest traditions.
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