1. Eating Zongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings)
People wrap glutinous rice with fillings like red bean paste, dates, or meat in bamboo or reed leaves, then steam or boil them. This commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan.
2. Dragon Boat Racing
Colorful dragon-shaped boats race to the rhythm of drums, symbolizing the search for Qu Yuan's body. It's now a competitive sport worldwide.
3. Hanging Calamus and Mugwort
These herbs are hung on doors to ward off evil spirits and diseases, as the festival falls during a time believed to be prone to pests and illness.
4. Drinking Realgar Wine
Realgar wine (a type of Chinese liquor) is consumed to repel snakes, insects, and other poisonous creatures, based on traditional Chinese medicine.
5. Wearing Perfume Pouches (Sachets)
Colorful silk sachets filled with aromatic herbs are worn by children to protect them from evil and insects.
6. Tying Five-Color Silk Threads
Red, yellow, blue, white, and black threads are tied on wrists or ankles to ward off misfortune, often removed during the first summer rain.
These customs blend health protection, ancestor worship, and the remembrance of Qu Yuan, celebrated annually on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month.