It is one of the most famous and culturally valid festivals in the country. Popular celebrations include dragon boat races, traditional rituals and festive foods. The Dragon Boat Festival, which takes place on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, is a mixture of ancient and modern-day traditions, and attracts local and foreign tourists alike.
Origins of the Dragon Boat Festival in Taiwan
Celebrations for the Dragon Boat Festival, or Duanwu Festival (端午節), in Taiwan have lasted for centuries. One of the most popular legends associated with the festival centers on Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet in ancient China. And when he drowned himself in the river to protest against corruption, local people rowed out to search for him in boats, throwing rice into the water to keep fish from devouring his corpse. This tradition developed into dragon boat racing and zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) eating.
Key Traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival Taiwan
- Thrilling Dragon Boat Races
In fact, one of the most famous traditions of the festival is the dragon boat races. Spectacular competitions take place in cities throughout Taiwan, especially in Taipei, Kaohsiung, Tainan and Lugang. These races involve long, ornately decorated boats that end in fierce dragon heads, paddled in time by teams.
Best Locations to Watch the Races:
- Dajia Riverside Park, Taipei – One of the biggest and most competitive races.
- Love River, Kaohsiung – Known for its vibrant nighttime races.
- Anping Canal, Tainan – Blends history with thrilling races.
- Lugang, Changhua – Offers a more traditional race experience.
- Eating Zongzi – A Delicious Tradition
Zongzi (粽子), or sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, are a prerequisite for the holiday. These dumplings can be stuffed with pork, mushrooms, salted egg yolks or sweet fillings such as red bean paste.
Regional Variations in Taiwan:
- Northern-style Zongzi: Al dente texture with soy-marinated fillings.
- Southern-style Zongzi: Made softer; ingredients are cooked separately before wrapping.
- Hakka-style Zongzi: Very unique taste using peanuts and dried radish.
- Balancing Eggs – A Symbol of Good Luck
A unique and superstitious tradition during the Dragon Boat Festival Taiwan, is the belief that being able to stand an egg up on end at 12:00, will bring good luck for the rest of the year. Many people, especially children, attempt this at home or in public events.
- Wearing and Hanging Protective Charms
To prevent evil spirits and retain good health, Taiwanese people:
- Wear five colored strings or colorful silk threads around their wrists.
- Witch the doors: Hang some mugwort and calamus on the doors to keep those bad vibes out.
- Cary herbal pouches filled with aromatic ingredients to ward off disease.
Modern Events and Celebrations Across Taiwan
1. Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships
Being held at Dajia Riverside Park, this is Taiwan’s biggest dragon boat racing event, with international teams here and thousands of spectators expected. There will be live music, food stalls, and cultural performances at the festival.
2. Kaohsiung Love River Night Races
In Kaohsiung there’s a twist — nighttime dragon boat races along the picturesque Love River. The spectacle of brightly-lit boats and fireworks is breathtaking.
3. Lukang Motorized Lantern Festival
Apart from conventional races, Changhua’s Lukang (鹿港) hosts a floating lantern festival that sees participants set paper lanterns afloat on the water, creating a magical display.
- Traditional Rituals at Temples
During the festival, many Taiwanese pray for health, safety and prosperity at temples. Certain temples also hold special ceremonies and place zongzi offerings at altars to deities.
Why the Dragon Boat Festival Taiwan is a Must-Experience
Taiwanese Dragon Boat event is more than just a series of races; it’s history, tradition and community in the same delightfully violent package. From the thrill of the dragon boat races to the flavors of zongzi, the festival provides a deep dive into Taiwan’s rich heritage. Travelers and locals alike can get up close and personal with the festival, making it a memorable way to experience Taiwanese culture.
