The Asian tourism stalwart is very much like the rest of Asia when it comes to cultural and traditional rites, festivals and ceremonies. With a multiethnic population residing within its geographically limited, multifaceted shores, Singapore is always celebrating something or the other. The Dragon Boat Race is considered one of the biggest water sports festivals in the country and you will find that the locals know to mix serious competition and rivalry with merriment and fun.

The tradition of racing in dragon boats commenced over twenty centuries ago in the south of China, now it has spread all over the world and is practiced in the Caribbean, the Americas and Africa as well. The original human powered craft was made out of teak wood and the races were always mixed with religious observances. With the advent of time, Hong Kong was the first to give the sport a commercial boost and make it an internationally acclaimed sporting festival. However, the sport first gained international recognition at the Olympics held in Greece many centuries ago.

The crew of a dragon boat comprises a drummer, steerer and paddlers and the drummer’s role is much like that of a coxswain in modern day rowing; someone who keeps the momentum going and directs the paddlers in addition to having a ceremonial presence. The steerer turns the boat as instructed by the drummer and the paddlers power the movement.

The annual festival held in Singapore draws teams from around the world to a colourful water front on Bedok Reservoir just east of the city for a day filled with cheering, drumming, chanting and fun. Each dragon boat has its own unique tints and decorations as selected by its crew and the dragon head at the helm of the boat is bathed and purified before launching on the spree.

Make a Singapore hotel reservation well in time to attend the sports festival and it is best that you choose a Singapore city centre hotel as you will be able to visit the other host of attractions in Singapore quite easily too. Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore makes an ideal base for your travels and lets you truly enjoy the sights and sounds the city has to offer.