Cisadane Festival Showcases Dragon Boat Racing Tradition

In Tangerang City, Banten, dragon boat racing is not merely a sport but a part of cultural diversity and local entertainment, inseparable from the centuries-long history of the Chinese community in the region. Haris, an 8-year-old primary school student, said he has been training in dragon boat paddling for the past year with other children his age living in Gerendeng, a sub-district on the banks of the Cisadane River. He has since participated in various competitions, including those outside the city. “Initially, my father told me to, but over time, paddling became really enjoyable. I want to be a professional rowing athlete when I grow up,” he said after competing with his teammates at the Cisadane Festival on Sunday (26/7). Alongside Haris and his friends, 11 other teams participated in the student category at this year’s festival, with 12 teams each competing in the general women’s and men’s categories. The dragon boat race took place from 24 to 26 July 2026, with a 200-metre course for the student category and a 500-metre course for the general category. Intan, a housewife living near the race venue, said she regularly watches the Cisadane Festival dragon boat race every year. This year, she came early in the morning with her children and nephew to support the home team. Dozens of teams participated, not only from various regions in Banten but also from other provinces such as West Java and Papua. “For local residents, including my family, dragon boats hold a special, memorable place, and we routinely visit this location every June or July to watch the Cisadane Festival,” she said, adding that several of her family members are also active dragon boat athletes. Another spectator, Luvie, who was visiting Tangerang during her university break, said it was her first time watching a dragon boat race. The festival gave her the opportunity to learn more about the cultural diversity in Tangerang City. The Cisadane Festival has been designated as one of 125 top events by the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, showcasing cultural richness, arts, cuisine, music, and carnivals. In addition to featuring the dragon boat race as its main attraction, the festival also promotes various other local cultures, including traditional games and local culinary specialities. The Tangerang City Government is targeting more than 70,000 visitors at this year’s festival.