Originally, the Chinese Dragon Boat was used for religious purposes as a way to appease the rain gods. Each boat was commonly carved a dragon's head at the bow and a tail in the stern, and was painted with scales. The paddles to propel the dragon boat on waters represent the dragon's claws, and the drum on the boat represents the heart of the creature.
Dragon boat racing has a rich history of ancient ceremonial and ritualistic traditions, originating in southern central China for more than 2500 years. Having the roots of ancient myths and legends, the races served as mock battles to awaken the hibernating Heavenly Dragon. The legend starts with the story of Qu Yuan, who was a minister in one of the Warring State governments, Chu. He was slandered by jealous government officials and banished by the king. Out of disappointment in the Chu monarch, he drowned himself into the Miluo River. The villagers rushed to the water and tried to recover his body, but couldn't.
In commemoration of Qu Yuan, people hold dragon boat races annually on the day of his death .
Homemade Traditional Dragon Boat
Used cardboard, popsicle sticks, marker, sharpie, hot glue, fibers. Shaped with cardboard and colored with a vibrant design. Given a dragon head in the front and a tail as the stern. Used popsicle sticks to resemble the seats.
Handcrafted by Shirley Yu
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