As the last dragon boat team crossed the finish line, the 2026 China Xianyang Lake Dragon Boat Open concluded on May 3 at the waters of Xianyang Lake Unity Square. Over two days of intense competition, more than 100 dragon boat teams from across the country sliced through the waves, delivering a spectacular water feast of “speed and passion” for local residents.
{Race scene photo provided by the organizing committee}
According to the organizing committee, this year’s event attracted 105 teams and over 1,400 athletes, setting a record for participation scale.
For the first time, the competition introduced a dual-track format with “Professional Group” and “Public Group.” The Professional Group targeted high-level dragon boat teams, emphasizing competitiveness and spectacle, while the Public Group catered to ordinary enthusiasts from government agencies, enterprises, universities, and communities, effectively lowering the entry barrier and allowing more citizens to experience the charm of dragon boating firsthand.
On the lake, teams vied fiercely for the lead, creating a thrilling spectacle. On the shore, crowds gathered to watch, their cheers and applause blending with the rhythmic drumming that echoed across the water.
While the competition was intense, the surrounding areas also buzzed with activity. “During the May Day holiday, I can watch a national-level competition right at my doorstep and also take part in nearby cultural tourism activities,” said Liu Tingting, a Xianyang resident. “I got to enjoy both the excitement of the dragon boat race and the beauty of the local scenery.”
A spokesperson from the organizing committee noted that the event was not only a competitive showcase but also an important platform to highlight local culture and development. Leveraging the “South Mountains, North Water, Beautiful Xianyang” tourism brand, the city used the race as a link to create immersive cultural tourism experiences. Several “Follow the Race to Tour Xianyang” travel routes were introduced, effectively boosting holiday consumption and continuously stimulating the cultural tourism market.
