The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of the most important traditional Chinese holidays. It falls on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month each 

year. In 2026, it falls on June 19. The festival has a history of over 2,000 years and is celebrated to commemorate the ancient Chinese poet and patriot Qu Yuan.

1. Dragon Boat Racing 

Dragon boat racing is the most iconic activity of the festival. Teams of paddlers row elaborately decorated dragon-shaped boats to the rhythm of drumbeats. The races 

symbolize the villagers' attempts to rescue Qu Yuan after he drowned himself in the Miluo River. Today, it has become an international competitive sport.

2. Eating Zongzi 

Zongzi are pyramid-shaped sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves. The fillings vary by region—some contain red bean paste, dates, or nuts (sweet), 

while others have pork, salted egg yolks, and mushrooms (savory). They are steamed or boiled and are a must-eat treat during the festival.