Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated annually on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. It holds significant importance and is rich in historical, cultural, and folkloric origins.
The origins of the Dragon Boat Festival date back to the Warring States period (475-221 BC). It is mainly celebrated to commemorate the death of Qu Yuan, a renowned statesman, poet, and a member of the Chu royal court during this time. Qu Yuan is believed to have been unjustly banished by his ruler, which led to his profound sadness and eventually, his tragic death by drowning himself in the Miluo River.
There are various legends surrounding Qu Yuan and the Dragon Boat Festival. One popular tale suggests that on the day of his death, his friends, who admired his integrity and patriotism, rowed boats out to the river to search for his body. In their attempt to save him, they beat drums and pounded drums, driving away fish and birds. To prevent the fish from consuming Qu Yuan's body, they threw rice dumplings (zongzi) into the water.
Today, the Dragon Boat Festival continues to be observed in various ways across China. Here are some key traditions:
1. Dragon Boat Racing: Teams of rowers, usually 20-22 members, compete in long, narrow boats adorned with a dragon's head and tail. The objective is to race across a course to reach a drumbeat or flag.
2. Eating Rice Dumplings (Zongzi): Zongzi, sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, are considered a must-have during the festival. These dumplings come in various flavors, with sweet, savory, and spicy fillings.
3. Wear the Five-Color Thread: It is believed that wearing threads of five different colors, symbolizing five virtues (Wisdom, Courage, Justice, Kindness, and Integrity), can ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
4. Hang Calendula Flower: Another custom is to hang the bright yellow calendula flower or may Changhua, believed to have the power to ward off illness and evil.
The Dragon Boat Festival is a time for family gatherings, honoring the spirit of loyalty and integrity of Qu Yuan, and enjoying the lively dragon boat races and cultural traditions.
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