The echoes of a millennia-old civilization are set to ripple once more across the Nordic waters from June 21 to 22.
The dragon boat is a profound symbol of Chinese culture that has endured for thousands of years.
It embodies not only speed and skill but also a deeper spirit of faith and tradition.
Every powerful stroke is a tribute to loyalty;
every spray of water, a chorus of unity.
Emerging from the verses of Qu Yuan—
“路漫漫其修远兮，吾将上下而求索“—
the dragon boat is more than a tribute to a great poet; it represents a shared cultural awakening and a spiritual pact that transcends borders.
Today, this vessel of heritage, carrying the weight of time and emotion, sails toward the shores of Northern Europe, engaging in dialogue with the world upon the tranquil waters of Copenhagen.
2025 Copenhagen Dragon Boat Festival
A Cultural Diplomacy on Water
From June 21 to 22, 2025, the 8th Copenhagen Dragon Boat Festival will return splendidly to Frederikskaj.
Marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Denmark, this is not just a competition on water—it is a symphony of cultures, harmonizing Chinese tradition with Nordic spirit and resonating with the pulse of our times.
Since its inception in 2018, the festival has grown into one of Copenhagen’s most iconic summer cultural events and stands as the only continuously held dragon boat festival in Europe.
It symbolizes the gentle yet powerful spread of Chinese culture across global waters.
Two Days of Festive Highlights | More Than Just Ripples on the Water
DAY 1 | Cultural Experience Day | June 21, 11:00–16:00
● Sino-Danish Cultural Performances | A stage for the symphony of tradition and modernity
● Public Dragon Boat Trial Rides | Experience the extraordinary spirit of rowing in unison (swimming required)
● Cultural Brand Booths | Exhibitions, gourmet tastings, artistic experiences, family creativity
● Community Exchange Projects | Building bridges of friendship between China and Denmark
DAY 2 | Race Day | June 22, 10:00–18:00
● Opening Ceremony & VIP Addresses | Brand showcases and cultural welcome
● International Dragon Boat Races | Teams race with vigor as drums thunder across the water
● Cross-cultural Artistic Showcases | Lion dances, traditional music, street dance, and creative fusion performances
● Award Ceremony & Closing Ceremony | Celebrating unity, perseverance, and the spirit of culture
Why You Should Experience This Cultural Festival on Water？
Hear the ancient conversation of civilizations
Let the legacy of dragon boating unfold on Nordic waters, where Eastern wisdom echoes through modern global dialogue.
Feel the warmth of unity with every drumbeat
Above the water lies the harmony of speed and synergy; beneath it, the essence of trust, perseverance, and shared purpose.
Broaden cultural horizons through diverse encounters
This is a space that transcends age, nationality, and language—a vivid testimony to the harmony of coexisting cultures.
Witness a historic tribute to lasting friendship
As we mark 75 years of China-Denmark diplomatic ties, this celebration honors timeless bonds and heartfelt mutual understanding.
Set sail into the future on a shared cultural voyage
Join global participants in this vibrant gathering—reflections on the water mirror humanity’s shared path and hopes.
Event Overview
Dates: Saturday, June 21 – Sunday, June 22, 2025
Location: Frederikskaj 12, 2450 København
Access: Free admission for the public, suitable for all ages and families
Organizer: Copenhagen Dragon Boat Festival Committee
Special Thanks To: Sino-Danish partner institutions, sponsors, cultural groups, and volunteers
In Closing
Dragon boating is not merely a race—it is a journey of values.
It symbolizes the courage to face the waves,
rekindles our connection to cultural roots,
and invites us to move forward together in a diverse world.
As summer approaches, we warmly invite you to embark on a cultural voyage across seas and mountains.
Rowing together means more than a contest of strength—it is a journey toward the heart.
Let us write a new cultural chapter for China and Denmark with every drumbeat and every stroke.