Each summer, the rhythmic thrum of drums over water signals the arrival of the Dragon Boat Festival – an event where ancient legend, athleticism, and community spirit collide in vibrant celebration. Rooted in Chinese culture and now widely embraced across Asia, the festival combines solemn homage with lively festivity.

Here’s everything you need to know about one of the most captivating cultural traditions in the Asian region.

The Origins: A Tribute Through Time

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as “Duanwu Jie”, dates back over 2,000 years and is most famously linked to Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet and minister of the Chu state during China’s Warring States period. Known for his loyalty and literary brilliance, Qu Yuan fell into despair after his political counsel was ignored and his homeland fell to a rival kingdom. In protest and mourning, he drowned himself in the Miluo River.

Legend says villagers raced out in boats to save him, or at least to retrieve his body, beating drums to scare away evil spirits and throwing zongzi (sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) into the water to keep fish from consuming him. This act of remembrance is what evolved into today’s Dragon Boat Festival.

When Is It Celebrated?

The festival falls on the 5th day of the 5th month of the Chinese lunar calendar, which usually places it in late May to June on the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, for instance, it will be celebrated on May 31st. Mark your calendars – this is when countries across Asia come alive with colour, culture, and camaraderie.

What to Expect: Boats, Dumplings, and Deep-Rooted Customs

Dragon Boat Racing: The most iconic activity is undoubtedly the dragon boat race. Long, narrow boats, adorned with dragon heads and tails, cut through the water as synchronised teams paddle to the beat of a drum. It’s a sport, yes, but also a cultural ritual, symbolising the efforts of those ancient villagers who raced to honour Qu Yuan.

Eating Zongzi: No Dragon Boat Festival is complete without zongzi. These glutinous rice parcels come filled with a variety of savoury or sweet ingredients – from pork belly and salted egg yolk to red bean paste or dates – depending on the region. The act of eating zongzi is both a culinary delight and a nod to ancient tradition.

Hanging Mugwort and Calamus: In many households, you’ll see mugwort and calamus hung above doors to ward off insects and evil spirits. This practice speaks to the festival’s dual nature as both a memorial and a seasonal celebration – a way of safeguarding health and harmony as summer begins.

Wearing Five-Coloured Threads: Children may wear bracelets or anklets made of red, yellow, green, blue, and white threads, which are believed to protect them from illness and misfortune. These threads are usually removed and tossed into the river at the end of the festival.

Where to Experience It

While the Dragon Boat Festival originated in China, its appeal has spread across the region. Here are a few places where you can witness the festival in full spirit:

China: The heartland of the festival, cities like Hangzhou, Guangzhou, and Jiangsu host major races and cultural performances.

Hong Kong: The Stanley International Dragon Boat Championships is always a crowd-puller, where you’d experience both tradition and carnival-like energy at once.

Macau: Beyond the races, Macau offers a more intimate view of the festival with parades and community feasts.

Taiwan: In Tainan and Keelung, dragon boat races take on a dramatic flair, often accompanied by folk performances.

Malaysia: Penang and Kuala Lumpur are known for competitive racing scenes and large Chinese communities that celebrate with heart.

Singapore: The DBS Marina Regatta fuses high-energy racing with a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, all set against Singapore’s striking modern skyline.

A Living Legacy

The Dragon Boat Festival may have ancient roots, but it continues to evolve while staying grounded in heritage. Whether you’re watching the boats slice through water, tasting zongzi for the first time, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the festival invites both locals and travellers to engage with history. Not in museums, but on rivers, streets, and dining tables across Asia.

In essence, the Dragon Boat Festival is about celebrating resilience, unity, and the ties that bind community together. And that, perhaps, is what gives the Dragon Boat Festival its enduring power.

Featured image: Henning Wiekhorst