By Yixuan Zhu, Fanshawe College, Early Childhood Leadership. Yixuan wrote this during her Parents2Partners internship, where she worked to help children and families from every cultural background feel a sense of belonging.
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The Dragon Boat Festival, also called the Duanwu Festival, is celebrated by millions of people around the world. With a history of more than 2,000 years, it honors unity, tradition, and adventure. Here is what families and classrooms should know.
Origins and legends
The festival began in ancient China, believed to date to the Warring States period. Its best known legend honors Qu Yuan, a respected poet and statesman who died in the Miluo River. According to tradition, people raced out in boats to search for him and threw rice dumplings into the water, which gave rise to the dragon boat races and the custom of zongzi.
When and how it is celebrated
The festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, usually in June. Families hang colorful pouches of herbs, children wear bright silk threads for good luck and protection, and everyone makes and shares zongzi, sticky rice dumplings with sweet or savory fillings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
The dragon boat races
Long, narrow boats decorated with dragon heads and tails race to the beat of drums while crowds cheer. Rowers must paddle in perfect rhythm, so the races celebrate teamwork and strength.
Why it matters
The festival is a time to honor ancestors, strengthen family bonds, and remember heroes like Qu Yuan. Today dragon boat races are held in many countries, bringing people of all backgrounds together.
Ideas for families and teachers
- Read or tell the story of Qu Yuan together.
- Make zongzi as a family cooking project.
- Try a classroom “dragon boat” relay where teams move in rhythm to a drumbeat.
- Find a dragon boat race or festival near you and go watch.