The myth
Dragon Boat Festival is the second largest Chinese cultural event, second
to Chinese New Year. The festival falls on 5th day of the 5th month in
the Chinese lunar calendar (summer solstice). It marks the beginning of
the rainy season and for the framers to sow their seeds. The prosperity
of farming community is depending on sufficient rain to ensure bumper
harvest. The dragon in the Chinese zodiac signs symbolises the cloud,
rain and water. It is said to rule the rivers and lakes. The farming communities
began their worship of the dragon by organising dragon boat races to welcome
the rainy season.
The legend
It also commemorated the death of the patriotic Statesman Qu Yuan during
the Warring States period, in the third century. Qu Yuan championed political
reform and peace amongst the neighbouring kingdoms. Under the influence
of corrupted ministers, the King banished Qu Yuan from the kingdom.
During his wandering in the countryside, he learnt that his country was invaded by rival kingdom. In despair and heartfelt sorrow, he committed suicide by leaping into the Mi Lo River. The people raced out in their boats in a vain attempt to save him. They beat their drums and splashing their oars in the water, trying to keep the fish away from his body. To honour his soul and to ensure it did not go hungry, they also scattered rice into the water. The tradition evolved, the rice is wrapped in bamboo leaves to form a three cornered packages.
The Dragon Boat Race
For generations, the Dragon Boat Races were very competitive. In the interest
of health and safety and friendship, the Dragon Boat races today are more
regulated. The boat is about 30 feet long and decorated with a dragon
head and a tail. The boat is wide enough to accommodate two rowers. There
are 16 rowers and a drummer in each boat. The drummer beat the drum and
the rowers paddle in unison.
The Dragon Boat Festival Dragon Boat Races are team events. These
races are great for team building and character development exercises.
Moreover they are fun to take part and fun to watch for everyone.
Dragon Boats races are ideal for the staff of any corporation and company
to take part. It would be a great day out and enjoying the Chinese tradition.
The London Dragon Boat Festival is a charity event. Throughout the day there will be cultural activities, Kung Fu demonstration, Lion Dance etc. Food and drinks are available throughout the day.
For more information, please contact Ms Julie Chan at 020 7553 4512 or email jchan@cnsolicitors.com