The dragon boat festival takes place on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month of each year (14 September 2008). The festival commemorates the life and te death of Qu Yuan - the first great poet in Chinese history. According to the legend, during a war-time his attempt to save his country was disdained and he was sent into exile - betrayed and slandered. After his state fell into enemy hands he threw himself into Miluo river and drowned. The people tried to save him with their boats from where the dragon boat races reflect their rescue attempt.

Each boat holds at least 14 people. The captain stand in the front of the boat and holds a flag. At the back stands the drummer who marks the rhythm for the oarsmen to follow.