What is the Dragonboat Festival About?

The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival (端午节, Duānwǔ Jié), is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated in Singapore and many other countries. It usually falls on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar, which typically corresponds to June. 


Historical and Cultural Significance

Origins: The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the life and death of Qu Yuan (屈原, Qū Yuán), a renowned Chinese poet and statesman from the Warring States period. Qu Yuan was known for his loyalty to his country and his deep sense of patriotism. When his state was defeated, he threw himself into the Miluo River in despair. Local people raced to the river in their boats to try and save him and threw rice into the river to keep the fish away from his body. This act evolved into the dragon boat races and the tradition of eating zongzi (rice dumplings).

Celebration: The festival is celebrated with a variety of activities that honor Qu Yuan and promote traditional Chinese culture.

Key Activities and Traditions

1. Dragon Boat Races

• Description: Dragon boat racing is a highlight of the festival. Teams of paddlers race in long, narrow boats decorated like dragons. The races are vibrant and competitive, drawing both participants and spectators.
• Location in Singapore: Major races are held at locations such as Marina Bay, where teams from various backgrounds come together to compete and celebrate the festival.

2. Eating Zongzi

• Description: Zongzi are traditional rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. They are typically filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, chestnuts, mushrooms, and salted egg yolks.
• Significance: Eating zongzi is a way to honor Qu Yuan and connect with the festival's cultural heritage. Families often prepare and enjoy these dumplings together.

3. Wearing Medicinal Herbs

• Description: In some regions, people wear pouches of medicinal herbs or tie them to their clothes. This is believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against disease.
• Tradition: While less common in Singapore, this practice is part of the broader celebration in other places.

4. Cultural Performances and Events

• Description: Various cultural performances and events may take place during the Dragon Boat Festival, including traditional music, dance, and storytelling. These events often aim to educate and entertain attendees about Chinese heritage and the significance of the festival.

At Eshkol Valley Preschool



Our children experience cultural stories and music brought to the school, and imagine themselves in dragon boat races, as a way to appreciate the cultural significance of the event!

Join us at our schools located in Punggol, Sengkang, Hougang, Yishun, Bukit Panjang and Pasir Panjang to see up close the enriching childhood your child can potentially have!