Yichang shines during 2026 Dragon Boat Festival
2026-06-22 21:06:08
By Zhou Chunyi.
Yichang, the hometown of Qu Yuan, staged a series of cultural and tourism events during the 2026 Dragon Boat Festival holiday under the theme "China's Dragon Boat Festival - Vibrant Yichang."
Just before the holiday, Yichang joined the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) on June 18 as the only Chinese city among seven new members, giving the city greater international visibility.
Dragon boat racing took center stage on June 19, with the National Dragon Boat Rally (Yichang Station) drawing nearly 10,000 spectators. Meanwhile, in Xujiachong Bay, Zigui County, a traditional dragon boat race themed "Tracing Roots in Qu Yuan's Hometown - Dragon Boats Riding the Waves" was held simultaneously. After 26 years, 14 ancient-style cedarwood dragon boats were once again launched into the river, accompanied with dragon eye dotting, soul summoning and other traditional ritual ceremonies.
Yichang linked 12 riverfront venues into a cultural corridor featuring night shows and immersive performances. Meanwhile, 26 scenic areas offered free or discounted admission, while new family-friendly activities attracted visitors of all ages.
International participation added to the festivities. Youth delegates from 10 countries joined dragon boat rituals, zongzi-making, and sachet-making activities with local experts. More than 30 international influencers also documented the celebrations, sharing Yichang's spirit with millions around the world.
Behind the scenes, the city strengthened public services and event support, opened public sports venues free of charge, provided free parking, and distributed 4 million yuan (US$586,510) in consumption vouchers. Qu Yuan's Hometown Scenic Area offered free entry on the festival day, while Bailihuang Scenic Area waived admission fees for visitors who could recite Qu Yuan's poem Li Sao.
By blending tradition with innovation and providing people-first service, Yichang demonstrated how a historic city can celebrate its roots while engaging contemporary audiences.
Yichang, the hometown of Qu Yuan, staged a series of cultural and tourism events during the 2026 Dragon Boat Festival holiday under the theme "China's Dragon Boat Festival - Vibrant Yichang."
Just before the holiday, Yichang joined the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) on June 18 as the only Chinese city among seven new members, giving the city greater international visibility.
Dragon boat racing took center stage on June 19, with the National Dragon Boat Rally (Yichang Station) drawing nearly 10,000 spectators. Meanwhile, in Xujiachong Bay, Zigui County, a traditional dragon boat race themed "Tracing Roots in Qu Yuan's Hometown - Dragon Boats Riding the Waves" was held simultaneously. After 26 years, 14 ancient-style cedarwood dragon boats were once again launched into the river, accompanied with dragon eye dotting, soul summoning and other traditional ritual ceremonies.
The traditional dragon boat race at Xujiachong, Zigui, brings ancient rituals back to life.
Yichang linked 12 riverfront venues into a cultural corridor featuring night shows and immersive performances. Meanwhile, 26 scenic areas offered free or discounted admission, while new family-friendly activities attracted visitors of all ages.
Dananmen's exclusive Dragon Boat Festival show features Chu-style dancers with wire-suspended lanterns.
Zhenjiang Pavilion presents the special edition of its Dragon Boat Festival show "Thousand Years on the River" for three times consecutively.
International participation added to the festivities. Youth delegates from 10 countries joined dragon boat rituals, zongzi-making, and sachet-making activities with local experts. More than 30 international influencers also documented the celebrations, sharing Yichang's spirit with millions around the world.
Members in the International Youth Leadership Exchange Camp gather for a group photo at Jiuge Alley.
Behind the scenes, the city strengthened public services and event support, opened public sports venues free of charge, provided free parking, and distributed 4 million yuan (US$586,510) in consumption vouchers. Qu Yuan's Hometown Scenic Area offered free entry on the festival day, while Bailihuang Scenic Area waived admission fees for visitors who could recite Qu Yuan's poem Li Sao.
By blending tradition with innovation and providing people-first service, Yichang demonstrated how a historic city can celebrate its roots while engaging contemporary audiences.
