Introduction to Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in China, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month according to the lunar calendar. It falls annually between late May and mid-June on the Gregorian calendar. This festival is steeped in history and culture, with origins dating back over 2,000 years.
One of the most well-known stories associated with the Dragon Boat Festival is about Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet from the Warring States period. Legend has it that when Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River after being exiled by his king, local villagers raced out in boats to save him but failed. To prevent fish from eating his body, they threw rice dumplings called zongzi into the river. Since then, dragon boat racing and eating zongzi have become integral parts of the festival celebrations.
Dragon boat races are held across China and even internationally during this time. Teams of paddlers compete in long, narrow boats decorated with dragon motifs, symbolizing strength, unity, and courage. The rhythmic sound of drums accompanies each race, adding excitement and energy to the event.
In addition to dragon boat races, families gather to make and eat zongzi, which are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves. These dumplings come in various fillings such as sweet red bean paste, savory pork, or salted egg yolk, depending on regional preferences. Other customs include hanging calamus and moxa herbs at home to ward off evil spirits and drinking realgar wine for good health.
The Dragon Boat Festival not only commemorates Qu Yuan's loyalty and integrity but also serves as an opportunity for people to strengthen family bonds, celebrate Chinese traditions, and enjoy outdoor activities. As a vibrant cultural event, it continues to attract participants worldwide, fostering greater appreciation for Chinese heritage.