China: Dragon Boat Festival to take place nationwide June 8-10

Millions of people across Greater China will celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival (Duanwu Festival) June 10. The event is a public holiday June 8-10 in mainland China, while Hong Kong (Tuen Ng Festival) and Macau (Tung Ng Festival) will also observe a one-day public holiday June 10. Many businesses and government facilities will close for the observance.

Events are likely in several parts of China. In Macau, competitions will take place at Nam Van Lake Nautical Centre June 8-10. In Hong Kong, races and events will take place at Victoria Harbor off Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade the following week June 15-16. Increased security is likely near all dragon boat events. The most significant traffic disruptions will probably occur in coastal and riverside communities where major races frequently happen.

Widespread business and transportation disruptions are likely in mainland China during the celebration through June 10. Tens of millions of people will travel before, during, and after the Dragon Boat Festival. Private vehicle use will likely spike, resulting in significant congestion on national highways and a sharp increase in accidents. The high volume of passengers will also affect bus and airline networks. Land border crossings, such as those with Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, are typically suspended during holidays, affecting the movements of people and goods.