To celebrate the traditional Chinese Dragon Boat Festival, international students and HMT students at HKUST(GZ) participated in a series of cultural experiences on May 31st, immersing themselves in the festive customs.

In the morning, the students visited a intangible cultural heritage workshop, where they learned to make sachets—a traditional festival accessory filled with aromatic herbs believed to ward off evil spirits. They also tried their hand at wrapping zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), a must-eat delicacy during the festival. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, they folded bamboo leaves, filled them with glutinous rice and various fillings, and tied them into pyramid shapes. Afterward, everyone enjoyed tasting different flavors of zongzi, from sweet red bean paste to savory pork.

In the afternoon, the group headed to Haizhu Wetland Park to witness the thrilling Dragon Boat races. Cheering along with the crowd, the students marveled at the synchronized rowing, vibrant boats, and energetic drumming that define this centuries-old tradition. Many captured the excitement on camera, while others learned about the festival’s origins, including the legend of Qu Yuan, a patriotic poet commemorated on this day.

The event not only deepened the students’ understanding of Chinese culture but also fostered cross-cultural connections. As the day ended, many left with handmade sachets, new culinary skills, and unforgettable memories of their Dragon Boat Festival adventure.