06/19/2026
🚣 Happy Dragon Boat Festival 🚣! �
Did you know the Dragon Boat Festival is rooted in the story of Qu Yuan, one of the beloved figures in Chinese history?�
Over 2,000 years ago, Qu Yuan served as a trusted advisor to the King of the State of Chu during China's Warring States period. Known for his wisdom, integrity, and deep concern for his people, he advocated for reforms and alliances that would strengthen his kingdom.
However, political rivals spread false accusations against him, leading to his exile from the royal court. During his years in exile, he wrote some of China's most celebrated poetry, expressing his love for his country and his hopes for its future. When Qu Yuan learned that the capital of Chu had fallen to an invading army, he felt powerless to save his nation, and chose to end his life by throwing himself into the Miluo River.
Upon hearing the news, people rushed out in their boats to search for him. To prevent fish from disturbing his body, they threw balls of sticky rice into the river. Over time, these acts evolved into two of the Dragon Boat Festival's most recognizable traditions:
🚣 Dragon boat races — inspired by the villagers racing across the water in search of Qu Yuan.
🥢 Zongzi (粽子) — sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, inspired by the rice offerings made to honour him.
Today, the Dragon Boat Festival is more than a celebration of food and sport. It is a tribute to loyalty, integrity, courage, and the enduring belief in standing by one's values, even in difficult times.
Whether you're cheering on a dragon boat team, sharing a delicious rice dumpling, or learning about the festival for the first time, Dragon Boat Festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate tradition, perseverance, and togetherness ❤️.