Dragon boat festival - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Origin: The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday that originated over 2,000 years ago. It is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar.
- 2. Legend of Qu Yuan: The festival is based on the legend of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister in ancient China. Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River as a form of protest against government corruption. Local villagers raced their boats to save him, but were unable to reach him in time. To prevent his body from being eaten by fish, they threw rice dumplings into the river.
- 3. Dragon boat races: One of the main highlights of the Dragon Boat Festival is the dragon boat races. Teams of paddlers race in long, narrow boats decorated with dragon heads and tails. The races are not only a fun competition, but also a way to pay tribute to Qu Yuan's sacrifice.
- 4. Zongzi: Zongzi are traditional Chinese rice dumplings made of glutinous rice stuffed with various fillings such as pork, mushrooms, and chestnuts. They are wrapped in bamboo leaves and steamed or boiled. Zongzi are a popular food eaten during the Dragon Boat Festival.
- 5. Five poisonous insects: Another tradition associated with the Dragon Boat Festival is the hanging of five-colored silk threads or pouches filled with fragrant herbs, called "five poisonous insects." It is believed that these items ward off evil spirits and diseases.
- 6. Drinking realgar wine: Realgar wine, made from realgar powder and rice wine, is also consumed during the festival. It is believed to have detoxifying properties and protect against evil spirits.
- 7. Wearing sachets: People also wear small bags filled with herbs and spices, called "sachets," during the Dragon Boat Festival. These sachets are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
- 8. Herbal baths: Some people take herbal baths using mugwort and other aromatic herbs during the festival. It is believed that these baths cleanse the body and promote good health.
- 9. Double Fifth Day: The Dragon Boat Festival is also known as Double Fifth Day, as it falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. The number five is considered unlucky in Chinese culture, and the festival is a way to ward off bad luck.
- 10. Modern celebrations: In addition to the traditional customs, the Dragon Boat Festival is also celebrated with various modern activities such as concerts, carnivals, and cultural performances. It is a time for families and friends to come together and enjoy the festive atmosphere.