Nattapon Aunhabundit

International Student in Taiwan Celebrated Dragon Boat Festival!

As an international student studying in Taiwan, celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival has truly been one of the most unforgettable experiences of my journey. The Dragon Boat Festival is one of Taiwan’s three major traditional holidays, and being able to take part in it made me feel more connected to the local culture in a very special way.

On June 10th, I had the opportunity to participate in the international dragon boat race in Taipei. The festival is not just about intense and exciting races—it’s about the spirit of teamwork and community. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying it for the very first time like me, there’s a place for everyone. We trained together, laughed together, and even shared a few sore muscles along the way. Through the process, I not only challenged myself physically but also built meaningful friendships with students from different countries.

Beyond the race itself, what made the experience even more memorable was the rich cultural atmosphere. From the rhythmic beat of traditional music to the lively energy of the crowd, every moment was filled with excitement. And of course, I can’t forget the delicious glutinous rice dumplings—zongzi! Tasting zongzi during the festival made me feel like I was truly embracing a 2,000-year-old tradition.

Participating in the Dragon Boat Festival allowed me to dive deep into Taiwanese culture and create lasting memories. If you’re planning to study in Taiwan, don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in local traditions like this. Make sure to save the date for next year—you definitely won’t want to miss it! Let’s make waves together!