Dragon Boat Festival Returns to Salford Quays
Salford City Council announced the exciting return of the Dragon Boat Festival to Salford Quays, a beloved event that has been a popular tradition since its launch in 2012. The festival is set to attract thousands of spectators, with both experienced and amateur teams gearing up to compete in ornate vessels outside the iconic Lowry Theatre.
Dating back approximately 2,000 years, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in the Chinese calendar, typically falling in May or June. Salford Mayor Paul Dennett expressed his enthusiasm for the event, describing it as “a great spectacle” and highlighting its historical and cultural significance as a sporting tradition in China.
Dr. Hanxin Yang emphasized the unifying power of the sport, noting that it has the ability to bring people together from diverse backgrounds. With records indicating a long-standing Chinese presence in Greater Manchester dating back to the 19th century, the festival serves as a meaningful opportunity to connect with the local Chinese community.
Chairman of Manchester’s Xinhua Chinese Association, Dr. Hanxin Yang, shared insights into the rich history of the sport, which traces back thousands of years and continues to foster a sense of camaraderie among participants. Neil Pickles, chair of the British Dragon Boat Association, highlighted the evolution of the sport, noting the transition from traditional hardwood boats to modern fibreglass vessels adorned with ornate Chinese dragon motifs.
As this weekend’s event coincides with the Year of the Dragon, symbolizing good fortune, participants and spectators alike are poised to partake in a memorable celebration of tradition and teamwork at the Dragon Boat Festival in Salford Quays.
