As the Duanwu Festival approaches, communities across China come alive with dragon boat races and traditional delicacies, celebrating a cherished cultural tradition.
In Huangmei County of central China's Hubei Province, dragon boat racers embraced the local tradition of standup paddling, showcasing a breathtaking mix of speed, strength, and teamwork.
"We participate in this exhibition race every year to show the team spirit of striving for excellence," said Nie Hehe, a dragon boat team leader.
In Xiapu County, Fujian Province, dragon boat racers, primarily local fishermen, circled Beishuang Island in a ceremonial prayer for smooth sailings, followed by an exhilarating five-kilometer sea race.
"There is no winner or loser in the race. It's an event to wish our fishermen good luck and good harvest on every fishing trip," said Jiang Kun, a dragon boat racer.
"Although it is a dragon boat race, we row the boats for health and blessings for all," said Zhang Youzhe, another racer.
The Dragon Boat Festival traditionally falls on the fifth day of the fifth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. It falls on this Saturday this year.
During the festival, people enjoy activities such as dragon boat races and eating Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) to commemorate the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who was also a minister of the State of Chu during the Warring States Period (475 BC-221 BC).
In Mengzi City of southwest China's Yunnan Province, people wrap glutinous rice into long reed leaves to make rod-like dumplings resembling the shapes of horse legs.
In Luoyang City of central China's Henan Province, people make dumplings for the festival with large, dark green leaves of daimyo oak trees.
"Our Zongzi is also called 'fu bao' in homophony, which symbolizes love and happiness, extending good wishes for everyone during the Dragon Boat Festival," said Zeng Guoyan, a resident in Luoyang.
People across China celebrate Duanwu Festival with dragon boat races, delicacies
