The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of China’s most colorful and lively celebrations. Held annually on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, this festival is a captivating blend of ancient tradition, thrilling races, and vibrant culture.
For travelers, the Dragon Boat Festival offers a unique glimpse into China’s rich heritage, where history, legend, and communal spirit come together.
Singh History of the Dragon Boat Festival in China
The story of the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival, one of the principal traditional holidays in China, dates back to 340 BC and commemorates the death of the poet and minister Qu Yuan.
Qu Yuan, a minister of the State of Chu, wanted the kingdom to fight against the powerful state of Qin but was insulted by a comrade, ZiLian, and consequently ostracized and exiled by the king. During his exile, Qu Yuan wrote many patriotic poems and became a favorite among the people.
He was just and honorable and loved the people of his state. After being exiled for twenty-eight years, the state of Qin attacked and captured the Chu capital, Ying. Despaired at his country’s defeat and refusing to bow down to the enemy, Qu Yuan threw himself into the Miluo River and drowned.
Upon hearing this, the local fishermen hauled out their boats and raced out onto the water to find him, but it was too late. They searched day and night for his body but could not find it.
Broken at the loss of their beloved poet and minister, people brought out eatables like eggs and sticky rice so the fish would consume them and leave Yuan’s body alone.
Thus, every year since the day of Qu Yuan’s death – the fifth day of the fifth month – is celebrated as the Dragon Boat Festival. This year, Jun 2nd is the projected date.
Customs and Traditions
The Dragon Boat Festival involves a lot of activities in its celebration, but the principal ones are Dragon Boat racing, preparing and eating Zings, wearing a perfumed pouch, and tying a five-color silk thread.
The prime tradition is dragon boat racing, derived from the act of the fishermen racing out to find Qu Yuan’s body. A team of people rides oak boats in the shape of dragons. One team member sits at the front and beats a drum to boost morale and support rhythm. It is believed that the winning team becomes the harbinger of prosperity and health in their village.
Another tradition is preparing and eating Zongzi. Made out of sticky rice, it contains fillings made of jujube, fresh meat, egg yolk, or sweet paste. It is also available in various shapes and made mostly at home. The tradition originates from the fishermen’s act of throwing rice in the water for fish to eat. People also hang perfumed pouches tied with five silk threads of different colors.
Sometimes, people also tie the threads around their children’s ankles, necks and wrists. The children are neither allowed to speak while the threads are secured nor permitted to remove them until the first rainfall of the summer, after which they throw them into the river. The belief goes that the threads ward off evils and keep diseases away.
Other traditions include hanging Calamus and Moxa on the front door in the hope of curing illnesses, balancing raw eggs on their ends for luck, and drinking Hsiung Huang wine.
The Thrill of Dragon Boat Racing
The highlight of the festival is the dragon boat races, an exhilarating spectacle where teams of paddlers race long, narrow boats decorated like dragons. The rhythmic beating of drums, synchronized paddling, and vibrant crowds create a high-energy atmosphere that is contagious.
These races are held in rivers, lakes, and canals across China, with some of the most famous competitions taking place in cities like Guangzhou, Hangzhou, and Hong Kong. For travelers, witnessing a dragon boat race is an unforgettable experience, where tradition meets athleticism in a display of teamwork and community spirit.
Savoring Traditional Festival Foods
No trip to the Dragon Boat Festival is complete without tasting zongzi, a traditional rice dumpling wrapped in bamboo leaves.
Zongzi comes in both sweet and savory varieties, with different regions of China offering their unique flavors. In northern China, zongzi is often filled with red bean paste or dates, while in the south, it might be stuffed with salted egg yolk, pork, or chestnuts.
This culinary tradition stems from the belief that people threw rice into the river to honor Qu Yuan’s spirit, and it remains an essential part of the festival’s festivities.
Where to Experience the Dragon Boat Festival
While the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated across China, some destinations stand out for their particularly grand celebrations:
Guangzhou: Known for its massive dragon boat races on the Pearl River, Guangzhou offers one of the most exciting festival experiences in China. The city comes alive with festivities, and visitors can enjoy a mix of modern and traditional celebrations.
Hangzhou: Famed for its beautiful West Lake, Hangzhou hosts elegant dragon boat races amidst stunning natural scenery. The combination of the lake’s beauty and the festival’s excitement makes it a must-visit spot.
Hong Kong: With its international vibe and long-standing connection to the festival, Hong Kong’s Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships is a huge draw for tourists and locals alike.
When to Visit
The Dragon Boat Festival typically falls in late May or June, depending on the lunar calendar. It’s best to check the specific dates ahead of time, as they vary from year to year.
Planning your trip during the festival allows you to immerse yourself fully in the festivities, but be prepared for larger crowds as locals and tourists flock to the major event locations.
Helpful Tips for Travelers
Book Accommodations Early: The Dragon Boat Festival is a national holiday, so accommodations in popular areas can fill up fast. Be sure to book your stay well in advance.
Learn the Local Customs: Understanding a bit about the festival’s history and customs can enhance your experience. Try local zongzi, watch a race, and engage with locals to learn more about how they celebrate the day.
Respect the Traditions: While the festival is a fun and festive time, it’s rooted in cultural significance. Show respect for local customs and be mindful of any religious or spiritual practices you encounter.
Conclusion
The Dragon Boat Festival is a vibrant, energetic celebration that offers travelers a unique opportunity to connect with China’s deep cultural roots. Whether you’re watching the dragon boats glide across the water, enjoying a bite of zongzi, or exploring local customs, the festival provides an unforgettable journey into China’s past and present.