The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival in Chinese, is one of the most significant traditional holidays celebrated in China and among overseas Chinese communities. This festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month according to the lunar calendar, which usually corresponds to June or July in the Gregorian calendar.

The origins of this festival are steeped in history and legend. One popular story tells of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet from ancient China who drowned himself in the Miluo River after being exiled by his king. To prevent fish from eating his body, local people threw rice dumplings into the river. These offerings evolved into what we now know as zongzi, a traditional food associated with the Dragon Boat Festival.

Today, the festival is marked by various activities that honor Qu Yuan’s memory. The most iconic event is dragon boat racing, where teams paddle long, colorful boats shaped like dragons through rivers and lakes. This energetic competition not only celebrates teamwork but also symbolizes the efforts of the villagers trying to save Qu Yuan.

In addition to dragon boat races, families gather to enjoy zongzi, a sticky rice dish wrapped in bamboo leaves. Each region has its own unique style of zongzi, ranging from sweet fillings like red bean paste to savory options such as pork or salted egg yolk.

Another tradition involves hanging calamus and moxa at home entrances to ward off evil spirits. People also drink realgar wine, believed to have medicinal properties and protective powers against disease.

The Dragon Boat Festival serves as more than just a cultural celebration; it fosters community spirit and strengthens family bonds. Through centuries-old customs and vibrant festivities, this holiday continues to resonate deeply within Chinese culture worldwide.