The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of China's most important traditional holidays. It falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month and has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. This festival honors Qu Yuan, an ancient poet who drowned himself in the Miluo River to protest corruption.
To honor his memory, people eat zongzi, pyramid-shaped rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. Dragon boat races are another popular activity during this time. Teams paddle fiercely in long boats shaped like dragons, creating an exciting atmosphere.
Families also hang calamus and moxa at their doors to ward off evil spirits. Children wear colorful sachets filled with herbs for good luck. These traditions keep the spirit of the festival alive and remind us of its rich cultural significance.
The Dragon Boat Festival is not only celebrated in China but also in other countries like South Korea and Japan. It’s a time for family reunions, respect for ancestors, and enjoying delicious food. Through these customs, we celebrate unity, history, and the enduring legacy of Qu Yuan.