Dragon Boat Festival: Unlocking the Charm of a Thousand Year Old Tradition

The gentle breeze of midsummer comes with the aroma of zongzi! The Dragon Boat Festival is approaching. This traditional Chinese festival, engraved with the marks of a thousand years of civilization, carries the profound emotions and wisdom of the Chinese people. Let's embark on a cultural journey through time and space together, and explore the unique charm of the Dragon Boat Festival!

Origins of the Dragon Boat Festival

In 278 BC, Qu Yuan, a poet of the State of Chu, threw himself into the river in grief and anger because his political ideals were shattered. The common people rowed boats to retrieve and threw rice balls to prevent fish and shrimp from eating his body - this was the origin of dragon boat racing and eating zongzi. Qu Yuan's patriotic feelings and literary achievements have earned the Dragon Boat Festival the elegant title of "Poets' Festival".

Some regions also have legends commemorating the filial daughter Cao E or the loyal Wu official Wu Zixu, but Qu Yuan's story is the most widely known.

Dragon Boat Festival Customs

Dragon Boat Racing · Thrilling Excitement

The dragon boat is long and narrow like a dragon, with a powerful dragon head decorated at the bow. The crew members paddle in unison to the beat of the drum. This is not only for "searching for Qu Yuan", but also symbolizes the spirit of unity and hard work. For the dragon boat race in 2025, remember to go to the riverside to experience the deafening shouts and the passion of splashing waves.

The Aroma of Zongzi Fills the Air

Zongzi is made by wrapping glutinous rice, red bean paste or salted meat in bamboo leaves. After steaming or boiling, it gives off a refreshing fragrance. In ancient times, people threw zongzi into the river to feed fish, but nowadays it has become a festival delicacy for every household.

Mugwort and Sachets · Ward Off Evil and Bring Good Fortune

The ancients believed that May was the "poisonous Month". They hung mugwort at the door to repel mosquitoes and ward off evil spirits, and wore sachets (containing herbs) to pray for good health. Modern science has also discovered that mugwort has antibacterial effects.

Realgar Wine · An Ancient "Epidemic-Prevention Drink"

Realgar wine was once considered a remedy for expelling toxins and repelling insects, but due to its arsenic content, modern consumption is mostly for display. Drawing the character "王" (king) on a child's forehead with realgar wine, symbolizes the vigor and strength of a tiger.

Dragon Boat Festival Checklist

✅ Get up early to watch a dragon boat race and enjoy the symphony of drums and waves.

✅ Make zongzi by hand, salted egg yolk meat zongzi VS. sweet red bean paste zongzi, Which side do you stand on?

✅ Hang a bunch of mugwort in your door for a fresh summer to repel mosquitoes.

Closing Thoughts

Life is like a zongzi. You never know what filling is in the next one. It's the time of the Dragon Boat Festival again. Let's wish each other good health, peace and good fortune!

Tip: Although zongzi is delicious, the glutinous rice is not easy to digest. It's healthier to enjoy them in moderation