Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most thrilling versions of the 2,000-year-old tradition. Teams of paddlers race long narrow boats — topped with dragon heads and tails — in intense heats across the harbour and at Stanley Beach on the south side of the island. The Stanley races draw competitors from over 25 countries and thousands of spectators. The traditions run deep: sticky rice zongzi dumplings, the sound of drums, the smell of incense. In the evening, the floating restaurants of Aberdeen Harbour offer a quieter way to absorb the day.
Stanley is the most international and accessible venue for spectators. The Aberdeen and Sai Kung races feel more local. The festival is a public holiday — the MTR gets crowded early.