China Announces Dragon Boat Festival Holiday

China Announces Dragon Boat Festival Holiday: June 8th to June 10th, 2024

Beijing – In celebration of China’s traditional Dragon Boat Festival, the government has announced a national public holiday from June 8th to June 10th, 2024. During this period, vibrant activities will take place across the country to commemorate this significant cultural festival.

Origin and Significance of the Dragon Boat Festival

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is one of China's oldest traditional holidays, with a history spanning over two thousand years. It is typically celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in honor of the great poet and patriot Qu Yuan from the Warring States period. According to legend, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River out of despair for his country’s fate. In memory of him, people raced dragon boats and threw rice dumplings into the river to keep fish away from his body, traditions that have evolved into the modern Dragon Boat Festival customs.

Celebrations Across the Country

During the three-day holiday, various traditional activities will be held nationwide, including dragon boat races, making zongzi (rice dumplings), and hanging mugwort and calamus. These activities not only showcase rich cultural heritage but also enhance community spirit and promote health awareness.

1. Dragon Boat Races: Dragon boat racing is one of the most iconic activities of the Dragon Boat Festival. Rivers and lakes across the country will host exciting dragon boat competitions, attracting numerous teams and spectators. Participants paddle vigorously to the beat of drums, creating a lively and thrilling atmosphere.

2. Making Zongzi: Zongzi is the traditional food of the Dragon Boat Festival. Families and community members gather to make and cook zongzi, enjoying the fun and warmth of being together.

3. Hanging Mugwort and Calamus: During the Dragon Boat Festival, people hang mugwort and calamus on their doors to ward off evil spirits. This custom is still widely practiced in modern society, reflecting people’s wishes for health and safety.

Conclusion

The Dragon Boat Festival embodies the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. While we commemorate the historical significance and cultural customs of this festival, it is equally important to recognize the contributions of modern technology in enhancing our quality of life. Advances in water treatment technology, particularly the use of hollow fiber membranes and reverse osmosis membranes, ensure that we can enjoy the Dragon Boat Festival celebrations with access to clean and safe water.

The Dragon Boat Festival is not only a time to remember history and pass down cultural traditions but also a moment for family and friends to reunite and share joy. We wish everyone a happy Dragon Boat Festival and all the best!