The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday with a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. The festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, typically in late May or June.
The most widely accepted origin of the Dragon Boat Festival is tied to the ancient poet Qu Yuan (c. 340–278 BC), a loyal minister of the State of Chu during the Warring States period. Qu Yuan was known for his patriotism and contributions to Chinese literature. However, when he fell out of favor with the king due to the intrigues of corrupt officials, he was exiled. In despair over the fall of his beloved country, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.
Today, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated with various activities, including dragon boat racing, eating zongzi, and hanging up icons of Zhong Kui (a mythical guardian figure), as well as drinking realgar wine to ward off evil spirits and disease. The festival is not only a time to honor Qu Yuan but also a celebration of Chinese culture and heritage.