The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated annually. While it is widely recognized and celebrated in China and among the Chinese diaspora worldwide, the English name and date of the festival might not be as well-known. In this article, we will delve into the English name of the Dragon Boat Festival, its historical significance, and the date on which it is celebrated.
English Name of the Dragon Boat Festival
The English name of the Dragon Boat Festival is often translated as “Dragon Boat Festival.” This name is derived from the central activity of the festival, which is the dragon boat race. The dragon boat, or “long” in Chinese, symbolizes the dragon, a revered creature in Chinese mythology. The festival is a time to honor the ancient hero Qu Yuan, and the dragon boat races are seen as a way to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck.
Historical Significance
The Dragon Boat Festival has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. It is believed to have originated during the Warring States period (475–221 BC) in China. The festival is primarily associated with the life and death of Qu Yuan, a loyal minister and statesman of the Chu kingdom.
Qu Yuan was known for his patriotism and integrity. When his kingdom was conquered by the state of Qin, he drowned himself in the Miluo River, in protest of the corruption and betrayal that led to the fall of the Chu kingdom. The local people, in memory of Qu Yuan, raced out in boats to save him, but he was already gone. To prevent fish from eating his body, they threw rice dumplings (zongzi) into the river. This practice later evolved into the custom of making and eating zongzi during the festival.
Date of the Dragon Boat Festival
The Dragon Boat Festival is traditionally celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. The lunar calendar varies each year, which means the festival falls on different dates on the Gregorian calendar. In 2023, the Dragon Boat Festival will be celebrated on June 22nd.
The date of the festival is determined by the Chinese lunar calendar, which is based on the phases of the moon. The fifth lunar month is often associated with summer and the peak of the rainy season in many parts of China. The festival is a time to celebrate the summer solstice and to ward off evil spirits that are believed to be more active during this time.
Conclusion
The Dragon Boat Festival is a significant cultural and historical event in China and among the Chinese diaspora. Known as the “Dragon Boat Festival” in English, it commemorates the life and death of Qu Yuan and is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. The festival features dragon boat races, the eating of zongzi, and other traditional activities, all of which contribute to the rich tapestry of Chinese heritage.