Why do we race dragon boats during the Dragon Boat Festival?
The most widely known origin of dragon boat racing during the Dragon Boat Festival is to commemorate Qu Yuan. Legend has it that Qu Yuan, deeply concerned for his country and its people, drowned himself in the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. Local people rowed boats in search of his body, throwing zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) into the water to feed the fish and shrimp, hoping to protect his body from disturbance. This gave rise to the customs of dragon boat racing and eating zongzi. The shape of the dragon boat imitates the mythical dragon, symbolizing good fortune and power. Dragon boat racing not only commemorates Qu Yuan but also embodies the spirit of unity, cooperation, and collective strength. During the race, the team members paddle in unison, demonstrating the importance of teamwork.
