The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Zhongxiao in China, is one of the country’s most important holidays. Celebrated across the mainland, it showcases impressive displays of tradition and community spirit. Taking place every year at a different time according to the Chinese lunar calendar, navigating this celebration of family and respect can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Agness, a travel blogger, has put together a comprehensive guide to help you understand the festival, its origins, who can participate, and the best places to experience it.
What is it?
While many travel guides focus solely on the dragon boat races, the Dragon Boat Festival encompasses much more than just water sports. At its core, the festival celebrates filial piety, a Confucian principle emphasizing respect for one’s elders.
The most well-known origin story centers around Qu Yuan, a famous poet and minister who lived over 2000 years ago, around 278 BC, during a tumultuous period in Chinese history known as the Warring States period. Unfortunately, he found himself on the losing side. When his home was captured by the powerful Qin state, he attempted to drown himself in despair. The locals, who admired his poetry, raced to save him in their boats, but it was too late. Today, dragon boat races are held annually to honor Qu Yuan and commemorate the actions of those who tried to rescue him.
How it’s Celebrated
The Dragon Boat Festival features three main components that make it one of China’s favorite national holidays: Zongzi Dragon Boat racing Drinking
Each element contributes to the festive atmosphere, but be careful not to overindulge, or you might end up with a rather full stomach!
Zongzi is a traditional treat enjoyed during the festival. It is a triangular package of sticky rice filled with various ingredients, all wrapped in bamboo leaves. The flavors vary widely, and you can choose from: Meat options like beef, pork, or ham
Vegetable alternatives such as red bean, cabbage, nuts, or hard-boiled eggs
When celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival in China, trying Zongzi is a must.
Zongzi are typically steamed, but you may also find boiled varieties. Opening them can be a bit messy, so it’s wise to have something to cover your fingers. The trick is to unwrap the leaf in one swift motion instead of picking at it slowly.
Dragon Boating
For many, the highlight of the Dragon Boat Festival is the thrilling dragon boat races. If you've seen the festival in a city, you’ve likely noticed the iconic ‘dragon heads’ adorning the boats. These races are incredibly exciting, especially when captured from above by flying a drone!
The races occur all over China, including: Major cities Hong Kong Various locations around the world
If you live in another country, keep an eye out for local events where you might be able to participate.
The best places to go
Beijing’s Xiadu Park
The biggest Dragon Boat race in China takes place in the capital, Beijing. However, due to the city's size, joining the actual racing can be more challenging than in other locations.
Make sure to arrive a few days early to enjoy the festivities at Xiadu Park, where the races and activities are held. The park often hosts additional events to immerse visitors in traditional culture, including: Temple fairs Rice dumpling-making competitions
Hangzhou’s Xixi Wetlands
Hangzhou is renowned for its stunning beauty, and any travel guide will tell you that it’s one of the best places to experience Dragon Boat races. Marco Polo famously described Hangzhou as “without a doubt the finest and most splendid city in the world.”
The Xixi Wetlands, located less than 5 km from the iconic Westlake, provide a picturesque backdrop for the races. The day is filled with traditional activities, including: Watching or participating in dragon boat races Making Zongzi
Enjoying live performances, such as the Xixi Kungfu Show This is a place you won’t want to miss!
Suzhou’s Taihu Cowboy Country Club
Suzhou, often referred to as the Venice of China due to its intricate waterways, is located near Hangzhou. It’s an ideal setting for the Dragon Boat Festival.
The events take place next to the beautiful Taihu Lake, within a luxurious resort. If you’re looking to escape the city for a while, Suzhou might be the perfect option for you.
Guangzhou’s Yangji Village
In the southern part of China, just above Hong Kong, Guangzhou hosts an incredible Dragon Boat Festival celebration. Events here can last for around 20 days, featuring over 500 boats in the races.
The famous lake in Guangzhou serves as the venue for the festival. If you plan to stay longer, Wangjiang Dongguan also hosts various events for festival lovers, including: Zongzi making competitions Shows Historical exhibitions about the festival
Other places
China is incredibly welcoming, and if you want to get involved in dragon boat races, there are plenty of options. While the events listed in this guide are more professional, you can still participate if you sign up well in advance.
For those seeking a less serious competition, many universities hold their own smaller events where you can sign up on the day. Check them out or call ahead to find out more. You’ll be warmly welcomed!
Have you ever celebrated the Dragon Boat Festival? If so, what was your experience? Don’t be shy—please share it with us in the comments!
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About the Author
Agness Walewinder
Agness is an adventure traveler, professional blogger, and digital nomad. She loves road trips, house sitting, and healthy local foods. She has travelled to over 65 countries thus far. Read her blog Etramping for more travel information and stories.
