Have you ever heard of the Dragon Boat Festival? It’s a super fun and exciting holiday celebrated in the Chinese mainland and all around the world! 🐉🎉
The festival happens on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which usually falls in June. People celebrate by racing colorful dragon boats, eating delicious sticky rice dumplings called zongzi, and enjoying time with family and friends. 🚣♂️🍙
Who was Qu Yuan?
The Dragon Boat Festival is all about remembering a great poet and hero named Qu Yuan, who lived over 2,000 years ago during the Warring States Period. Qu Yuan loved his country very much. When he felt sad about what was happening in his kingdom, he decided to jump into the Miluo River. The local people raced out in their boats to try to save him, and they threw rice dumplings into the water so the fish would eat them instead of Qu Yuan. That’s why we have dragon boat races and eat zongzi today! 🐟❤️
Dragon Boat Races
Dragon boats are long, colorful boats decorated with dragon heads and tails. Teams of paddlers row as fast as they can to the beat of a drummer sitting at the front of the boat. It’s all about teamwork and rhythm! Have you ever tried paddling in a boat with friends? Imagine doing that with a big team in a race! So cool! 🚣♀️🌊
Yummy Zongzi
Zongzi are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. They can have sweet or savory fillings like red bean paste, meat, or nuts. Making zongzi is a fun activity families do together. Maybe you can try some if you get the chance! They’re super tasty! 😋🍙
A Festival Celebrated Worldwide
Even though the Dragon Boat Festival started in the Chinese mainland, people now celebrate it in many countries like Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and even places in Europe and the United States! In some cities, you might find dragon boat races and festivals where you live. It’s a great way to learn about Chinese culture and have fun! 🌏🎊
A Time for Fun and Togetherness
The Dragon Boat Festival is not just about racing and food; it’s also a time for families and communities to come together. People enjoy traditions that have been passed down for generations. It shows how important heritage and culture are to many people. 😊👪
So this Dragon Boat Festival, why not join in the fun? Watch a dragon boat race, try making or eating zongzi, or learn more about Qu Yuan’s story. It’s a wonderful way to explore and celebrate Chinese culture! 🐉❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
