As the summer solstice draws near, China gears up for the Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Jie. This year, the festivities are scheduled from June 8th to June 10th, 2024, providing a perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together and celebrate this ancient tradition. At Coolnet, we are excited to announce that we will be open during these holiday days to serve you without interruption.
But what is the story behind the Dragon Boat Festival? Legend has it that the festival commemorates the death of Qu Yuan, a famous poet and minister during the Warring States period (475-221 BC). Qu Yuan was known for his loyalty and patriotism, but when he fell out of favor with the king, he was exiled. In despair over the corruption and political turmoil in his homeland, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.
The local people, who loved and respected him, rushed into their boats to search for his body and dropped sticky rice wrapped in leaves (zongzi) into the water to prevent fish and other creatures from devouring his body. This act of kindness eventually evolved into an annual dragon boat race, where teams paddle vigorously to the rhythm of drums, racing to win honor and bragging rights.
Why do we eat zongzi on Dragon Boat Festival? Zongzi is not only a symbolic gesture to honor Qu Yuan's memory but also a delicious treat enjoyed by millions during the festival. Made from glutinous rice stuffed with various fillings such as meat, beans, or egg yolks, and wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves, zongzi represents the unity and diversity of Chinese culture.
What is the Dragon Boat Festival and why is it celebrated? The Dragon Boat Festival is not just about racing boats and eating zongzi. It's a time for family reunions, wearing protective charms, hanging calamus and wormwood on doors to repel insects and bad luck, and drinking realgar wine to stay healthy. These customs reflect the Chinese belief in harmony between humans and nature and the importance of community and mutual support.
As we prepare for the Dragon Boat Festival in 2024, let us remember the spirit of Qu Yuan and embrace the values of unity, tradition, and cultural pride that this festival embodies. Enjoy your well-deserved break from June 8th to June 10th, and may your celebration be filled with joy, laughter, and good fortune!
Happy Dragon Boat Festival! May this festival bring you prosperity, health, and happiness. We look forward to continuing our journey together towards shared success.
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