During the Warring States era of China, Qu Yuan, an incorruptible minister of state, was sent in exhile by his emperor due to political intrigue. In despair, the minister ended his life jumping into the river. But the common folk loved the minister very much. They did not want the man-eating fish from the river devour him. Fishermen started to beat the oars against water to frighten the fish, women started trowing rice wrapped in leaves to feed the fish and prevent them from eating the minister's body.
Today, that centuries-old story lives in dragon boat festival that is also famous for a special treat – glutinous rice dumplings, triangular cushions wrapped in pandan leaves featuring a wide variety of fillings.
The best locations to watch Dragon Boat Festival:
1. Bedok reservoir – participants from all around the world come here to show their rowing skills competing in an exciting race.
2. Kallang River – come here for a hands-on experience and watch dgragon racing clubs compete with each other.
3. Marina Bay – at the very centre of it all, Marina Bay offers a variety of activities and games for the whole family.
Photo @singaporefinest.com.sg
Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore Planned for June 7
News in Asia
Not only boat races – the essential ingredients of this much loved Singaporean festival are drumbeats and delicious dumplings. Strange it may look, but it is patriotism and politics that are the roots of the Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore.