Dragon Boat Festival: A Vibrant Celebration in Taiwan

History and Significance

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Jie, is a traditional Chinese holiday that has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. In Taiwan, it is one of the most important festivals, second only to the Chinese New Year. The festival commemorates the life and death of the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who lived during the Warring States Period (475–221 BCE).

According to legend, Qu Yuan drowned himself in the Miluo River after his political reforms were rejected by the emperor. To prevent his body from being eaten by fish, the people of his village threw zongzi, glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, into the river. This practice has evolved into the modern-day tradition of eating zongzi and racing dragon boats on the Dragon Boat Festival.

Celebrations in Taiwan

The Dragon Boat Festival is a lively and colorful affair in Taiwan. The highlight of the festival is the dragon boat races, which are held in rivers and lakes across the country. The boats are decorated with elaborate carvings and paintings of dragons, and the races are a test of both speed and skill.

In addition to the dragon boat races, there are a number of other traditional activities associated with the Dragon Boat Festival. These include:

• Eating zongzi: Zongzi are a type of glutinous rice dumpling that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, and nuts. They are wrapped in bamboo leaves and cooked in boiling water.
• Hanging wormwood leaves: Wormwood is a traditional Chinese herb that is believed to ward off evil spirits. On the Dragon Boat Festival, people hang wormwood leaves over their doors and windows to protect their homes from harm.
• Wearing silk sachets: Silk sachets are small bags filled with herbs and spices. They are worn on the body to prevent disease and bring good luck.

A Time for Family and Festivities

The Dragon Boat Festival is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. It is a time to enjoy traditional foods, watch exciting dragon boat races, and participate in other festive activities. It is also a time to remember the legacy of Qu Yuan and to reflect on the importance of patriotism and loyalty.