Event
Dragon Boat Festival 2026: Of Thumping Drumbeats and Delicious Rice Dumplings
Date
11 June 2026
Venue
Chinatown Smith Street
Entry
Free
A travelling exhibition by Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall exploring the origins and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival (Duan Wu Festival). Discover the story of Qu Yuan, the significance of rice dumplings, and thumping drumbeats that define this ancient Chinese festival.
About the Exhibition
The Dragon Boat Festival which falls on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month is an important festival for Chinese communities around the world. It is also known as the Duan Wu ("double fifth") Festival in Mandarin.
Originating from southern China, the festival has its early origins in the worship of the river dragon before it became associated with the commemoration of Qu Yuan, a third century poet and patriotic statesman during the Warring States period (475-221 BC) of ancient China.
What to See
- Origins of Duan Wu — Learn about the ancient river dragon worship traditions
- Qu Yuan's Story — Discover the patriotic poet whose legacy shaped the festival
- Rice Dumpling Traditions — Explore the diverse rice dumpling (zongzi) varieties across Chinese communities
- Dragon Boat Racing — Understand the symbolism behind the thumping drumbeats and spirited races
Organised by Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, this travelling exhibition brings the rich heritage of the Dragon Boat Festival to the heart of Chinatown Singapore.