Dragon Boat Festival 2024: Activities, History, Food

History of Dragon Boat Festival: Qu Yuan (屈原)

Dragon Boat Festival is about Qu Yuan, a Chinese poet and statesman during the Warring States period of ancient China. Legend says Qu Yuan drowned himself in despair over his country’s fate. The local people’s efforts to save him and protect his body in the river led to the traditions of dragon boat racing and the making of Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), both central to the Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated in his honour.

The festival has grown over time, becoming a worldwide event that celebrates Chinese culture and community spirit.

Activities during Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Water Parade/ Dragon Boat Racing

At the heart of this festival are the dragon boats, striking in their design with dragon heads that symbolise good luck. These boats play a pivotal role in the festival’s exhilarating races, captivating spectators and elevating dragon boat racing to an internationally celebrated sport. More than just a competitive spectacle, the festival in Hong Kong represents a vibrant tapestry of cultural identity, seamlessly blending excitement with time-honoured traditions.

Held annually in Tai O, Hong Kong, the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade is a resplendent event that goes beyond mere celebration, embodying spiritual significance and a deep cultural connection. Revered for its century-long tradition, this extraordinary event has earned its esteemed status on China’s national list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Eating Festive Food: Zongzi (粽子)

A traditional food eaten during this festival is Zongzi, a pyramid-shaped dumpling made of glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves. The fillings vary by region and can be sweet or salty. Meats, beans, or egg yolks could be added inside Zongzi.

FAQ:

Where is Dragon Boat Festival Celebrated in Hong Kong?

The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated throughout Hong Kong, with various locations hosting dragon boat races and festivities. One of the most popular and iconic venues for the Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong is the fishing village of Tai O. Situated on Lantau Island, Tai O is known for its traditional stilt houses and picturesque scenery. The village holds the Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade, where colourful dragon boats race along the waterways. This event attracts both locals and tourists who come to witness the thrilling races and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Sweet Zongzi and Savoury Zongzi, which one is more popular?

This is a very good question, Zongzi always sparks a debate between sweet and savoury flavours. According to Weather China, regions like Shandong, Henan, Hunan, and Zhejiang are known for enjoying both sweet and savoury Zongzi. In Shandong, 90% of the population prefers a sweet taste, while in Henan, 81% enjoy sweet Zongzi. On the other hand, 73% of the population in Hunan prefers a savoury taste, and in Zhejiang, as many as 87% of the people favour the salty flavour of Zongzi. Salty Zongzi is commonly preferred in southern China, while sweet Zongzi is often favoured during the Dragon Boat Festival and is popular in northern China.