The Dragon Boat Festival, celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month (June 10 this year), is one of China's most colorful cultural events with a history stretching back over 2,000 years.

The festival commemorates Qu Yuan, a revered poet and statesman of the Warring States period who drowned himself in protest against government corruption. Legend says villagers raced boats to save him and threw zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) into the river to prevent fish from eating his body - giving birth to two signature traditions.

Modern celebrations feature:
• Dragon boat races - energetic team competitions
• Zongzi - pyramid-shaped rice treats with sweet or savory fillings
• Herbal sachets and mugwort decorations - believed to ward off evil spirits
• Silk thread bracelets - worn for protection and good fortune

This UNESCO-listed intangible cultural heritage offers visitors a perfect opportunity to experience authentic Chinese traditions. Will you be trying zongzi this year?