Dragon Boat Festival Travel Guide
About Dragon Boat Festival
Dragon Boat Festival falls on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, honoring the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. Core activities are dragon boat racing and eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). In 2024 it’s June 10th, with a 3-day holiday — summer’s first long weekend.
Best Places to Watch Dragon Boat Races
Miluo River, Hunan: Where Qu Yuan drowned himself — the most authentic dragon boat races. The whole town turns out, creating an electric atmosphere. Races usually on the festival day itself.
Litchi Bay, Guangzhou: Guangzhou has the longest dragon boat tradition. Pearl River dragon boat races are massive, with spectators packed along both banks. Litchi Bay features the unique dragon boat visiting custom.
Zhenyuan, Guizhou: Miao-style dragon boat races on the Wuyang River — boats are narrower and longer, rowers wear ethnic costumes, accompanied by Miao singing and dancing.
Xixi Wetlands, Hangzhou: Jiangcun dragon boat races have 500 years of history, featuring the tradition of deliberately capsizing and righting the boat for good luck. Entry 80 yuan.
North vs South Zongzi
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