Dragon Boat Culture
Dragon Boat Festival: where it started, what people do today, and why it matters.
Historical Origins
Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. It commemorates the poet Qu Yuan (340-278 BC) who drowned himself in protest against corruption.
- • Originates from ancient China over 2,000 years ago
- • People raced boats to find and save Qu Yuan's body
- • Threw rice dumplings into the river to prevent fish from eating his body
- • Now a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event
Dragon Boat Racing
The highlight of the festival is the exciting dragon boat races. Teams paddle in unison, creating a spectacular display of teamwork and skill.
- • Boats are shaped and decorated like dragons
- • Typically 20 meters long with 20+ paddlers
- • A drummer sets the rhythm for the team
- • A steer at the back guides the boat
Traditional Customs
Eating Zongzi
Glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, tied with string. Various fillings: meat, beans, eggs, dates, sweet fillings.
Hanging Traditional Items
Calamus, mugwort, garlic, and realgar to ward off evil spirits and disease.
Wearing Five-Color Thread
Red, yellow, white, black, and blue threads tied on wrists for protection.
Drinking Realgar Wine
Yellow wine infused with realgar, believed to dispel toxins and pests.
Regional Variations
- • Northern China: Focus on dragon boat racing in major rivers
- • Southern China: More elaborate customs and larger races
- • Hong Kong: International dragon boat competitions
- • Taiwan: Night dragon boat races with lanterns
Global Celebration
Today, Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated worldwide, from the United States to Australia, promoting cultural exchange and international friendship through the spirit of teamwork and competition.