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Darling Harbour

Dragon Boat Festival

When

Saturday 20 June from 10am to 4pm Sunday 21 June from 10am to 4pm

Cost

Adult: $12Child: $8

Set across the Garden’s tranquil pavilions, this immersive event combines traditional arts, live performances and hands-on experiences for all ages. :

Tianjin Museum Intangible Cultural Showcase

Discover a special showcase presented in collaboration with the Tianjin Museum, featuring rare cultural artefacts and interactive experiences that bring centuries of tradition to life.

Yangliuqing Woodblock Printing & Museum Collection

Explore the beauty of Yangliuqing woodblock New Year paintings, one of Tianjin’s most treasured intangible cultural heritages. Known for their rich storytelling, vibrant colour and intricate craftsmanship, these works combine carving and painting techniques to depict vivid scenes and auspicious themes.

This experience pairs traditional woodblock printing with museum artefacts such as the Ming Dynasty Blue and White Loquat and Ribbon Bird Plate and the Qing Dynasty Famille Rose Eight Peach Branch Plate, allowing visitors to explore history while trying the printing and colouring process firsthand.

Tiger Hanging Ornament Craft

Create a traditional tiger hanging pouch, a meaningful Dragon Boat Festival keepsake. Handmade from fabric scraps and adorned with tassels, these charming ornaments often feature tiger shapes along with zongzi, gourds and other symbolic forms.

Traditionally gifted to children, these pouches are worn for protection and good fortune—making this a beautiful, hands-on way to connect with festival customs.

Foil Painting Experience

Discover the art of foil painting, a traditional metalwork technique using gold and silver foil to create layered, luminous designs. Inspired by Dragon Boat Festival imagery, including dragon boats and folklore themes, this activity blends craftsmanship with storytelling.

The experience also connects to the famous “Dragon Boat Race at Jinming Pond” painting from the Northern Song Dynasty, offering a deeper appreciation of this historic celebration.

Bamboo Dragon Boat Making

Celebrate one of the festival’s most iconic traditions by crafting your own bamboo dragon boat. Dragon boat racing has been a central part of the festival for centuries, and this activity brings that heritage to life in a creative, family-friendly way.

Inspired by historical depictions such as Dragon Boat Race at Jinming Pond, this workshop offers a hands-on connection to the energy and spirit of ancient celebrations.

More Ways to Experience the Festival

Alongside the Tianjin Museum showcase, enjoy a full program of activities throughout the Garden:

  • Rice dumpling (zongzi) making demonstrations

  • Jasmine tea blending and tea tasting

  • Traditional pitch-pot game

  • Live Chinese music performances

  • Martial arts demonstrations (Tai Chi & Wu Shu)

  • Tianjin Culture & Tourism Photo Exhibition

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