While Singapore does not experience the dramatic shifts of seasons, it makes up for it with a vibrant tapestry of festivals. If you’ve noticed bamboo-wrapped rice dumplings popping up in eateries and hotels, that’s a sure sign: Dragon Boat Festival is here!
From June 7 to 9, Chinatown will be celebrating Dragon Boat Festival with an exciting lineup of programmes which includes an exhibition, hands-on rice dumpling making class, games and live performances. Admission to the festival is free.
The Origin of Dragon Boat Festival
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. 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.
The Exhibition “Dragon Boat Festival: Of Thumping Drumbeats and Delicious Dumplings”
Ever wonder how rice dumplings and dragon boat races came about? Then this is the exhibition you should not miss. Hosted by Chinatown Business Association (CBA), in collaboration with Sun Yat-Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, the exhibition “Dragon Boat Festival: Of Thumping Drumbeats and Delicious Dumplings invites everyone to uncover the rich history and cultural origins of the Dragon Boat Festival.
Join the Dragon Boat Race and win Chinatown Food and Beverage Vouchers!
Get your adrenaline pumping at the Dragon Boat Race (rowing machine) and compete to burn the greatest number of calories in five minutes and stand to win Chinatown Food and Beverage Vouchers worth $30.
Alternatively, participate in the Guess the Number of Bak Chang in a Gunny Sack Contest. Families with children can also look forward to fun activities like lantern riddles, storytelling, dragon boat craft workshop or participate in traditional childhood games including pitch-pot, hopscotch and five stone.
Learn the Art of Making Hainanese Rice Dumplings and Sweet Rice Wine
Learn the art of crafting Hainanese rice dumplings, those savoury bundles wrapped in fragrant bamboo leaves, in an engaging hands-on workshop.
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Are you ready to unlock the secrets of rice wine? Don’t miss this immersive workshop where you’ll explore the fascinating history of this ancient beverage, discover its unique health benefits, and savour the different varieties of rice wine. Then, put your newfound knowledge to the test as you learn to craft a classic dessert: sweet, fermented rice wine with melt-in-your-mouth glutinous rice balls. Don’t miss this opportunity to create a delicious piece of tradition!
Wish Upon a Dumpling, Give Back to the Community
Make a difference this Dragon Boat Festival by supporting the Association for Persons with Special Needs (APSN). Purchase a Wish Dumpling sachet for $5, fill it with your heartfelt wishes, and hang it on the festival’s Wishing Wall. Not only will you be supporting a great cause, but you’ll also stand a chance to win a relaxing 2D1N staycation, courtesy of Amara Singapore and Dorsett Singapore!
Whether you’re a local seeking to reconnect with your roots or a curious traveller eager to soak up the festivities, Chinatown’s Dragon Boat Festival promises a day of fun and entertainment!
Date: 7 – 9 June 2024
Venue: Chinatown Singapore Singapore 059190
