Tuen Ng Festival 2025

Description

Tuen Ng Festival is an important public holiday in Hong Kong. It honors a famous ancient poet named Qu Yuan who cared about his country. People remember his loyalty and love for his homeland on this day.

The festival takes place on the fifth day of the fifth month in the lunar calendar. That usually falls in late May or June in the modern calendar. The date moves each year because the lunar calendar is different from the solar calendar.

This holiday is significant because it celebrates bravery, loyalty, and community spirit. It reminds people to care for one another and to stand up for what is right. Schools and many businesses close so families can observe the day together.

Tuen Ng Festival connects people in Hong Kong to Chinese history and culture. It keeps old stories and values alive and helps new generations learn why these ideas matter.

Traditions

In Hong Kong people gather along harbors to watch and cheer at loud dragon boat races. Teams paddle fast to drumbeats, with colorful boats and spirited crowds waving flags and shouting encouragement.

Families and stalls make and eat zongzi, sticky rice parcels wrapped in bamboo leaves. People share different fillings like pork, beans, or sweet red bean. Making zongzi is a hands on activity often done together.

Homes hang bundles of mugwort and calamus at doors and windows. Children wear small perfumed sachets for luck. Some families put a dab of realgar paste on children faintly, following older local custom.

Travel Tips

Check opening hours first. Government offices and some banks close. MTR, buses and ferries run but get very crowded around event sites and piers. Buy tickets and book ferries or tours early. Carry an Octopus card for faster travel.

Stay safe by keeping water, sun protection and a charged phone. Follow crowd control and police instructions near events. Enjoy local food stalls and public viewing areas, arrive early to avoid the largest crowds, and be respectful of residents and event staff.