Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China, celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. Here is an English translation and introduction to the customs associated with this festival:
The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a famous poet and loyal minister during the Warring States period (475-221 BC). According to legend, after being exiled and witnessing the fall of his beloved country, Qu Yuan jumped into the Miluo River. Local people paddled out in their dragon boats to save him, but in vain. To prevent fish from eating his body, they threw rice dumplings and dragon boat races into the river.
Here are some of the main customs and activities of the Dragon Boat Festival:
1. Dragon Boat Races: The most iconic event of the festival is the dragon boat race, where teams of paddlers race long, narrow boats with dragon-shaped heads and tails. This traditional sport symbolizes the local people's efforts to save Qu Yuan and is now a significant cultural and international event.
2. Eating Zongzi: Zongzi, also known as sticky rice dumplings, is another essential aspect of the Dragon Boat Festival. Made with glutinous rice and various fillings, such as red bean, meat, or fruit, zongzi are wrapped in bamboo leaves and cooked in water or bamboo steamers. Eating zongzi is believed to be a way to honor Qu Yuan's memory.
3. Drinking Realgar Wine: Realgar wine, a drink made from realgar (an ore of arsenic) and other traditional herbs, is believed to have protective properties against diseases. It is said that drinking this wine during the festival can ward off evil spirits and diseases.
4. Wearing Incense: To protect against evil spirits and diseases, people often wear an armband or a string made from incense, known as "huang lian," during the Dragon Boat Festival.
5. Carving Dragon Faces: People create intricate dragon faces and display them on windows and doors to ward off evil spirits and attract good luck.
6. Dragon Boat Decorations: Decorations, such as paper lanterns, streamers, and flags in the colors of dragon boat races, are hung in homes and public spaces to celebrate the festival.
These customs and activities have been passed down through generations and continue to be celebrated across China and in Chinese communities around the world, ensuring that the Dragon Boat Festival remains a vibrant and meaningful tradition.
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