Dragon Boat Festival links modern China to traditions more than 2,000 years old
Organizers expect more than 1,000 athletes and 200,000 spectators as races and traditional customs mark the holiday across mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
- On Friday, June 19, 2026, mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan marked the Dragon Boat Festival with colorful boat races, lion dances, and other traditional festivities.
- The more than 2,000-year-old holiday is rooted in ancient beliefs about health and harmony with nature, widely associated with poet Qu Yuan, who legend says drowned himself over 2,000 years ago.
- Tsinghua University history professor Liu Xiaofeng said traditions evolve while remaining vital. Beijing resident Meng Dongmei maintains customs like preparing zongzi and wearing protective bracelets believed to ward off evil.
- Teams compete in races spanning up to 500 meters, with participant Li Maoshan saying, "The competition helped strengthen our team spirit." Founder He Weihong emphasized dragon-and-lion dancing remains essential cultural heritage.
- Beijing's 2026 celebrations will continue through the weekend at the capital's Grand Canal, showcasing cultural exchanges between northern and southern regions as the city honors its historic customs.
34 Articles
34 Articles
PBS NewsHour
BizTocDragon Boat Festival links modern Chinese cultures to ancient traditions
The holiday, over 2,000 years old, is known for its sporting events, but its origins are rooted in history and beliefs about health and harmony with nature.
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The traditional Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated in China for three days. An event that is attracting more and more tourists from abroad.
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