Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of the most traditional Chinese festivals. It is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month every year. This festival has a long history and is closely related to the story of Qu Yuan, a famous poet and statesman from ancient China.

Qu Yuan lived during the Warring States period. He was loyal to his country and proposed many useful policies to improve the state of Chu. However, he was misunderstood by the king and eventually exiled. In despair, he drowned himself in the Miluo River. The local people were very sad and wanted to save him. They threw rice dumplings into the river to prevent the fish from eating his body. They also rowed boats to search for him. These actions gradually became the traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival.

Today, the Dragon Boat Festival is not only a time for remembering Qu Yuan but also a time for family reunions. People often eat zongzi, which are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. Different regions have different flavors of zongzi, such as those filled with meat, red bean paste, or egg yolk. Another important activity is the dragon boat race. Teams of rowers compete in long, narrow boats decorated like dragons. This event is both exciting and full of energy.

The Dragon Boat Festival is an important part of Chinese culture. It not only preserves historical memories but also brings people together. Through this festival, we can learn more about our traditions and the values of loyalty, courage, and perseverance. As the world becomes more connected, more people around the globe are beginning to understand and appreciate the beauty of Chinese festivals like the Dragon Boat Festival.