Dragon Boat Festival 2025: Origins, Customs, and Holiday Schedule (May 31–June 2)

Dragon Boat Festival 2025: Origins, Customs, and Holiday Schedule

Holiday Closure Notice: Our offices will be closed May 31–June 2. All orders will resume processing on June 3.

Historical Roots

Originating in 278 BCE, this festival honors Qu Yuan, a revered statesman-poet of the Chu Kingdom. His political exile and dramatic drowning protest against corruption remain central to its significance.

Core Traditions

Dragon Boat Racing: Over 2,000 teams worldwide compete annually, recreating the rescue attempt for Qu Yuan through synchronized paddling to drumbeats.

Zongzi Evolution: These pyramid-shaped rice parcels now feature innovative fillings like matcha custard and spicy salmon while preserving traditional bamboo-leaf wrapping techniques.

Health Customs

Communities hang Artemisia argyi (mugwort) to purify air and create aromatic sachets. The ritualistic realgar wine consumption has evolved into non-alcoholic herbal infusions for modern safety.

Global Impact

Recognized by UNESCO in 2009, 85+ countries now host official events. Major cities like Sydney and San Francisco hold week-long cultural exhibitions alongside boat races.