As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, Tianhe district of Guangzhou in South China's Guangdong province is gearing up for a month of festivities, featuring over 100 unique events.

In the days leading up to the festival, local villages in Tianhe will continue the traditional "Dragon Boat Invitations", a custom where villages send invitations to each other, initiating a series of festive activities.

Highlights include the Zhucun, Qianjin, and Huangcun dragon boat gatherings on June 15, and the Chebei dragon boat spectacle on June 17, known as the largest in Guangzhou and a provincial intangible cultural heritage item.

The Liede dragon boat event will take place on June 19, showcasing over 100 dragon boats against the backdrop of the city's skyscrapers.

Dragon boat races, a key attraction of the festival, will be held across various locations. On June 13, both Chebei and Shenyong will host thrilling races. The Liede race on June 19 will include "dragon boat drifting" due to the narrow nature of the river.

The festivities will culminate with the Tianhe District Dragon Boat Invitational on June 27 at Tianhe Wetland Park, offering a blend of competitive racing, cultural experiences, and local delicacies.

Dragon boat racers paddle in sync during a festive competition in Tianhe. [Photo/thnet.gov.cn]