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The Dragon Boat Festival, known as Duanwu Jie (端午節) in Mandarin, is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the traditional Chinese lunar calendar. In Taiwan, it is a public holiday.
The festival commemorates the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan, who lived during the Warring States period. It is said that upon learning his country had been invaded, he drowned himself in a river. The festival is a remembrance of his patriotic spirit.
Dragon Boat Racing: The most iconic activity is the dragon boat races, where teams paddle elaborately decorated boats to the beat of drums. It symbolizes the attempt to rescue and recover Qu Yuan's body.
Zongzi: People eat zongzi, which are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. They were originally thrown into rivers to prevent fish from eating Qu Yuan's body and now are enjoyed as a festive food.
Hanging Calamus and Mugwort: Herbs like calamus and mugwort are hung on doors or windows to repel insects and evil spirits.
Realgar Wine: In some traditions, people drink realgar wine as it's believed to ward off evil and bring health.
On this day, families gather to watch dragon boat races, make and eat zongzi together, engage in activities that promote health and well-being, and participate in various cultural events organized throughout Taiwan to celebrate this traditional festival.
