The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday with a history spanning thousands of years. Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, it falls in early summer—a time when the sun is at its peak, mugwort and calamus flourish, and the heat of summer gradually sets in. In ancient times, people observed rituals during the festival to ward off evil and disease and to honor the sages of the past. Over time, the day has come to be associated with prayer for health and safety, commemoration of the poet Qu Yuan, and expressions of love for one's homeland and family, with hopes for peace and prosperity in the year ahead.

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday with a history spanning thousands of years. Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, it falls in early summer—a time when the sun is at its peak, mugwort and calamus flourish, and the heat of summer gradually sets in. In ancient times, people observed rituals during the festival to ward off evil and disease and to honor the sages of the past. Over time, the day has come to be associated with prayer for health and safety, commemoration of the poet Qu Yuan, and expressions of love for one's homeland and family, with hopes for peace and prosperity in the year ahead.

Symbolic Meanings

Loyalty and Patriotism:Commemorating Qu Yuan's unwavering devotion to his country, reminding people to cherish their homeland and stay true to their principles.

Dispelling Plague and Ensuring Health:Customs such as hanging mugwort and calamus, wearing sachets, and drinking realgar wine reflect the ancient wish to ward off illness and protect the family's well-being.

Reunion and Harmony:Families gathering to make zongzi and watch dragon boat races symbolize togetherness and the hope for annual reunions.

Striving and Progress: Dragon boat racing, with its spirited and competitive nature, represents the drive to push forward and achieve success.

Festive Customs

1. Dragon Boat Racing – Breaking Waves with Vigor

Dragon boat racing is a time-honored tradition during the festival. In ancient times, people rowed dragon boats to honor the dragon deity and commemorate Qu Yuan, accompanied by the thunderous sound of drums. Today, dragon boat races are not only lively folk events but also symbolize striving forward and the hope for a smooth and successful year.

2. Making Zongzi – Soft and Aromatic, Infused with Sentiment

Eating zongzi during the Dragon Boat Festival is a cherished tradition in every household. Glutinous rice is wrapped in bamboo leaves, with sweet fillings like jujubes and red beans or savory fillings like fresh meat. Once steamed, the aroma fills the air. The angular shape of zongzi symbolizes integrity and uprightness, while the taste carries a sense of nostalgia for past sages and the hope for family reunion.

3. Hanging Mugwort and Calamus – Repelling Insects and Inviting Blessings

There is a folk saying, “Hang mugwort on Duanwu, and illness will stay away.” Early on the morning of the festival, people tie mugwort and calamus into bundles and hang them by doorways and windows. The unique fragrance of these plants repels insects and purifies the air, symbolizing the warding off of evil spirits and the protection of family health throughout the year.

4. Wearing Scented Sachets – Carrying Peace and Protection

Sachets sewn with colorful silk threads and filled with spices like cloves, mugwort, and mint are worn by children during the festival. Both the sachets and the five-colored threads symbolize the harmony of the five elements and serve as tokens of elders' wishes for their children's safety, happiness, and growth.

5. Drinking Realgar Wine – Purifying the Body and Dispel Ling Harmful Influences

An old saying goes, “Drink realgar wine on Duanwu, and all illnesses will stay away.” During the festival, a small amount is consumed or applied to the forehead and wrists. The medicinal properties of realgar are believed to drive away venomous creatures and prevent summer ailments, ensuring safety for both the young and the old.