Can Dragon Boat Races be Held during the Dragon Boat Festival? The Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month. This year, the festival falls on June 14th, 2021. It is a time when people remember the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, who lived during the Warring States Period (475–221 BC). Legend has it that he drowned himself in the Miluo River as a form of protest against corruption and injustice. To prevent fish from eating his body, people threw zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and raced their boats to scare away the fish. This was the origin of the dragon boat race, which became an integral part of the festival. However, given the current global pandemic situation, it may not be feasible to hold dragon boat races as usual. Many local governments and authorities have imposed restrictions on large gatherings and public events to prevent the spread of Covid-19. In some areas, the dragon boat races have been cancelled or postponed until further notice. Nevertheless, there are some places where dragon boat races can still be held with certain precautions and safety measures in place. For instance, in Taiwan, the government has allowed dragon boat races to take place as long as they comply with the regulations set by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC). This includes limiting the number of participants, maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, and disinfecting the boats and equipment. Similarly, in some provinces in Mainland China, such as Guangdong and Zhejiang, the local governments have approved dragon boat races but with limited participants and spectators. They also require organizers to submit a Covid-19 prevention plan and follow strict guidelines during the event. In other countries, such as Malaysia and Singapore, the dragon boat races have been cancelled or conducted virtually. Instead of physical races, participants can register and compete online by submitting videos of their performances. Although it may not be as exciting as the real thing, it is a safer and more feasible option given the circumstances. In conclusion, while the Dragon Boat Festival is a time to celebrate and honor cultural traditions, it is also crucial to prioritize public health and safety during a global pandemic. Whether dragon boat races can be held during the festival depends on the local regulations and restrictions. If it is possible, organizers should follow the necessary precautions and measures to ensure a safe and successful event. If not, alternative forms of celebration can still bring people together in spirit and keep the festival alive.