Photo: Courtesy of Wuzhen

Picturesque canal town Wuzhen in East China's Zhejiang Province has launched a series of lavish festivities to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival, which falls on June 10 this year.

One of Wuzhen's longstanding traditions during the traditional festival is the dragon boat race, which showcases the town's unique water environment. This year, Wuzhen has introduced a special twist by combining traditional lantern boats with dragon boats to create the "dragon plus lantern boat," giving new meaning to dragon boat culture.

In the tea art street area, a dining zone themed around the Dragon Boat Festival has been set up. The area is adorned with dragon lanterns at both ends, and tables have festival-themed tableware and decorations. The menu features local specialties combined with the traditional food of the festival, including zongzi, a traditional Chinese food made from glutinous rice and stuffing wrapped in reed or bamboo leaves, and a specially brewed yellow wine that is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil.

The culinary experience is closely tied to emotions and local scenery, reflecting a wish for health and well-being. Visitors can also participate in traditional rituals such as forehead painting, wearing five-color ropes, and hanging sachets, all intended to ensure good health for the year.

Additionally, the tea art street area has been transformed into a creative market featuring intangible cultural heritage items. Stalls offer Dragon Boat Festival-themed cultural creations, zongzi gift boxes, traditional jewelry, calligraphy and lacquer fans, providing new ways for the public to experience intangible cultural heritage.

Some art exhibitions about the festival are also being held, where tourists can enjoy delicious food while learning more about the traditions behind the Dragon Boat Festival.

Global Times