June 15 marked the traditional dragon boat gathering event of Zhucun Village along Shenchong Creek in Guangzhou.

Ahead of the gathering, the Zhucun Dragon Boat Association sent formal invitations to dragon boat teams from allied and kin villages. On the big day, invited teams sailed over to join the celebration — this custom is known as chenjing (visiting the dragon boat gathering).

Around 80 dragon boats from neighboring kin and allied villages flocked to the creek, filling the scene with lively bustle. Boats cruised along the water as firecrackers crackled to greet one another. Once the parade finished, rowers stepped ashore.

Zhucun's association treated all visiting villagers to festive dragon boat pastries, rice puddings, and a communal dragon boat feast. After the meal, all teams paraded up and down Shenchong Creek three more times, before rowing onward to take part in dragon boat gatherings in other villages.

Source: Guangzhou Daily
Reporter: He Zuanying
Video: Yang Yaoye, He Zuanying
English Video Editing: Lyu Yun
English Author & Editor: Lyu Yun