【端午节英语演讲稿】Good morning, everyone!
Today, I would like to talk about a traditional Chinese festival — the Dragon Boat Festival, also known as the Duanwu Festival. This festival is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month every year. It is not only a time for family reunions and cultural traditions, but also a way to honor the spirit of patriotism and perseverance.
The most famous story associated with the Dragon Boat Festival is the legend of Qu Yuan, a great poet and statesman from ancient China. He lived during the Warring States period and was known for his loyalty to the state of Chu. When the country was in danger, he tried to advise the king to make wise decisions, but his suggestions were ignored. In despair, he drowned himself in the Miluo River. To prevent fish from eating his body, people threw rice dumplings into the river and rowed boats to drive away the fish. This tradition has evolved into the modern-day dragon boat races and the eating of zongzi, which are two of the most important customs of the festival.
Dragon boat racing is one of the most exciting activities during the festival. Teams of rowers compete in long, decorated boats that resemble dragons. The sound of drums and the rhythm of paddles create a lively and energetic atmosphere. It's not just a sport, but also a symbol of teamwork, courage, and unity.
Another important tradition is the making and eating of zongzi. These are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, often filled with ingredients like red bean paste, meat, or egg yolk. Each region in China has its own unique style of zongzi, reflecting the diversity of local cultures.
In addition to these traditions, people also hang mugwort and calamus on their doors to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Some people wear fragrant sachets filled with herbs to protect themselves from illness.
The Dragon Boat Festival is more than just a holiday; it is a celebration of history, culture, and national pride. It reminds us of the importance of loyalty, sacrifice, and the value of preserving our traditions. As we enjoy the festival, we should also take a moment to reflect on the values it represents.
Thank you for listening!
