Dragon Boat Festival: Chinese traditional festival (2)

Customs

Dragon Boat Racing

(Photo/Xinhua)

Dragon-boat racing is an essential activity during the Dragon Boat Festival. It was prevalent in the States of Wu, Yue and Chu in ancient times, and it remains prevalent in the southern coastal areas of China today. As early as 7,000 years ago, ancient inhabitants constructed canoes by hollowing out logs and used wooden paddles to maneuver themselves on the water. Dragon boat races are generally held after a grand sacrificial ceremony, where people worship and make sacrifices to the dragon god. In the past, the atmosphere of the celebration was quite serious. People prayed for blessings, good weather and future luck. In some places, there are also dragon boating rituals to worship Qu Yuan.