Discovering traditions of Dragon Boat Festival: An AI-generated poster guide

Eating zongzi during the Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional custom for the Chinese people. Zongzi, also known as "jiaoshu" or "tongzong," has a long history and comes in many varieties. Since the Spring and Autumn period, every year in early May, Chinese families soak glutinous rice, wash bamboo leaves, and make zongzi, with an increasing variety of styles and flavors.

In terms of fillings, the north is known for Beijing jujube zongzi, which are filled with jujubes, while the south offers a range of fillings including red bean paste, fresh meat, ham, and egg yolk, with Zhejiang's Jiaxing zongzi being particularly famous. The custom of eating zongzi has flourished in China for thousands of years and has also spread to countries such as Korea, Japan, and various Southeast Asian nations.

The custom of flying kites during the Dragon Boat Festival originated in the Southern Song Dynasty. At that time, people flew colorful kites on this day, symbolizing "flying dreams" and "dispelling bad luck," letting go of the bad luck of the year, while also expressing longing for a better life.

Kites usually feature auspicious patterns or characters painted on them, with a framework made of bamboo strips covered in paper or silk. By pulling on the long string attached, the kite can be flown into the sky with the help of the wind. The ancient and enjoyable traditional activity, featuring ancient and enjoyable, showcases the wisdom and creativity of the Chinese people.