The Confucius Institute Ljubljana, in cooperation with the Kayak Federation of Slovenia, organizes the traditional Dragon Boat Festival and Rowing Competition 2026.
For nearly two decades, this event has successfully bridged sport, culture, and friendship between Slovenia and China.
Every year, it takes place in a warm atmosphere alongside representatives from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Slovenia.
This year, the competition will be held as part of the National Championship, meaning the winning team will – for the very first time – be crowned the Slovenian National Champion.
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM
Team training: Friday, June 19th, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Saturday, June 20th, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Where: Ljubljanica River, Trnovski pristan (under the Prule Bridge)
A Tribute to Two Patriots
The Chinese people have celebrated the Duanwu Festival for over two thousand years in memory of the poet and statesman Qu Yuan, a symbol of patriotism and integrity. In his honor, dragon boat races are held worldwide, and traditional zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) are prepared.
A similar story of courage and patriotism can be found in Ivan Hribar, the long-serving mayor of Ljubljana and diplomat. Following World War I, Hribar steadfastly advocated for the Slovenian people’s right to self-determination and dignity. He, too, dedicated his life to defending his homeland and nation. At the downfall of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and the beginning of the occupation of Ljubljana, Hribar committed suicide on April 18, 1941, as a protest against the loss of Slovenian independence. He drowned in the Ljubljanica River (specifically, the Gruber Canal in Kodeljevo). He left behind a farewell letter to his wife and daughter, featuring verses from France Prešeren’s epic poem The Baptism on the Savica:
“A night less fearsome in the black earth’s womb,
Than days of bondage under the bright sun.”
The Dragon Boat Festival is thus a tribute to the courage and patriotism that weave a common thread through both Chinese and Slovenian history.
What Can You Expect?
-
The National Dragon Boat Rowing Championship
-
Traditional Chinese delicacies (zongzi – sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves)
-
A rich cultural program by the river, bringing together teams, visitors, and event partners
Come by the Ljubljanica River to experience this celebration of tradition, courage, and intercultural friendship together!
