Salford Quays is all fired up to host the UK Chinese Dragon Boat Festival 2015 on Sunday 14 June.The historic race, which is taking place in the city for the fourth time, will see 27 teams take to the water to race and competing for the winning trophy. The event is fast growing, both its size and popularity and already the biggest of its kind in Europe.
On the day, thousands of spectators are expected to line the quays to watch the race and enjoy the entertainment featuring Dragon Dance, Lion Dance, Chinese Kungfu and other cultural performances.
It will all be kicked off with a dragon boat team entrance led by dragon dance where performers mimic a dragon to bring good luck to the competitors.
City Mayor Mr Ian Stewart from Salford City Council said: “The event promises to be another great day in Salford’s calendar.
“Last year more than 10,000 spectators turned up to watch and the atmosphere was absolutely fantastic.”
Chairman of the event organiser Dr Xu Yanzhong said: “We thank everyone who has given their 100% support towards our event this year and previous years, Salford City Council, MediaCityUK, Manchester China Forum, and our special thanks go to our main sponsors, Bank of China UK, Huawei UK, BCEG International. It is all the support and contribution from our volunteers that has made the event such a success.”
Dragon boat racing originated in China 2,000 years ago and usually involves rowers sitting side by side in a boat decorated in the shape of Chinese dragon, with a helm to steer and a drummer sitting up high in front, beating out the rhythm.
