As is universally acknowledged, the Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most important traditional Chinese festivals. It falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. There are various customs and traditions during the Dragon Boat Festival, such as eating zongzi, Dragon boat racing, hanging mugwort and calamus to avoid evil spirits, etc.
As far as I am concerned, I usually make zongzi with my family to celebrate the festival, which is an unforgettable moment. Actually, making zongzi is an activity involving a careful process of preparation and skill. The first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients, typically including sticky rice, bamboo leaves, filling and strings for tying. Then we place a small amount of sticky rice in the center of a bamboo leaf, followed by a spoonful of the prepared filling. The bamboo leaf is folded over the rice and filling to form a cone shape. After that, we use a string to tie it tight. Finally, we place all the wrapped zongzi in a large pot of boiling water and cook for several hours. The hot water allows the rice to become soft and sticky, while the bamboo leaves impart a fragrant flavor. The process of making zongzi not only creates a delicious treat, but also strengthens our family relationship through bringing us together.
Among the stories and legends related to the Dragon Boat Festival, Qu Yuan’s story leaves me great impression. Qu Yuan was a respectable poet of the Warring States period, known for his integrity and patriotism. However, he was falsely accused of treason and exiled by the jealous court officials. Sorrowful and desperate, he drowned himself in the Miluo River. The local people rushed to save him, but it was too late. To prevent fish from eating his body, they threw the wrapped zongzi into the river. They also rowed dragon boats to search for his body. And this is the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival.
The Dragon Boat Festival is of rich historical and cultural significance. The dragon boat racing is not only a sport event but also a way to pay homage to Qu Yuan's noble spirit. The festival is also a time for family reunions and honoring ancestors. Additionally, it is associated with getting rid of evil and disease, as well as praying for good health and fortune. Overall, the Dragon Boat Festival serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing modern Chinese people to connect with their ancient heritage and pass on the traditions and values of their ancestors to later generations. It’s a celebration of culture, history and the enduring spirit of Chinese people.