The Legend of Dragon Boat Festival

The Origins of Dragon Boat Festival

Long, long ago, in ancient China, there was a wise and respected statesman named Qu Yuan. He served loyally in the court of Emperor Huai, but was exiled after he opposed a certain corrupt official. In his exile, Qu Yuan traveled far and wide, gathering knowledge and wisdom.

The Tragic Demise of Qu Yuan

After many years, Qu Yuan heard news that his beloved city of Chu was under attack by the neighboring state of Qin. Despite his exile, Qu Yuan was deeply concerned for the welfare of his people. He pleaded with the Chu leaders to prepare for war and offered his services as strategist, but they refused to listen to him. In despair, Qu Yuan threw himself into the Mi Lo River, rather than witness the destruction of his homeland. When the local people heard of his fate, they set out in boats to try and save him. They frantically beat their drums and splashed their paddles in the water, hoping to scare off the fish and dragons that might harm him. Alas, Qu Yuan was not saved, and his death was mourned by all.

The Dragon Boat Races Tradition

To commemorate the life and death of Qu Yuan, the people of Chu began to hold annual dragon boat races on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. The boats were designed to resemble the shape of a dragon, and were adorned with brightly colored scales and fierce-looking dragon heads. The paddlers sat rowing in synchronized harmony, their oars dipping and flashing in the water. On the riverbanks, thousands of spectators cheered and tossed zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) into the water as an offering to the departed Qu Yuan. Dragon boat racing has continued to this day, and the Dragon Boat Festival is still celebrated throughout China and in many other parts of the world. It is a time of remembrance, a time for families to come together, and a time for people to show their respect for the ancient traditions and legends of their land.