Bacang, Qinming Festival & the Dragon Boat Festival: Chinese Traditions Around the World

By : Meylisa Hadi

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Bacang, or zongzi, is a traditional dish made of glutinous rice filled with ingredients such as meat, beans, or sweet paste, wrapped in bamboo leaves, and then steamed or boiled. According to legend, bacang was originally thrown into the river to prevent fish from eating Qu Yuan’s body after he jumped into the Miluo River.

In different countries, bacang has evolved to match local cultures. In China, there are variations between the northern and southern regions. Northern bacang tends to be sweet, filled with red bean paste, while the southern version is often savory, featuring pork, beans, or mushrooms.

Celebrating Qinming Tradition to Remember and Honor the Deceased

Last week, IndoIdaho had Bacang making lesson led by Ahma and Mama Pin Sie at Wiranata's residence. The ladies gently make Bacang and follow the instructions excitingly. Bacang making became a warm moment to share within the community, and let the tradition live. 

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In fact, Bacang is not only for the Dragon Boats Festival but also for other Chinese festivals, including the Qingming Festival. The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day or Pure Brightness Festival, is a Chinese holiday celebrated on the 15th day after the spring equinox, typically in early April, to honor and remember ancestors. In this festival, people pay respects to their ancestors by visiting graves, sweeping tombs, and offering food and paper money. While the focus is on honoring the deceased, various regional foods are also consumed, including Bacang. This year, Qinming festival will be on 4th April 2025.

Dragon Boat Festival in the United States: Denver, Washington D.C., and Beyond

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In the United States, Chinese communities and the general public celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival with enthusiasm. Cities like Denver and Washington D.C. serve as key hubs for the festivities, featuring grand dragon boat races.

• Denver hosts the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, which not only includes races but also showcases Asian cultural performances and a food festival where different types of bacang are sold.
• Washington D.C. hosts the Dragon Boat Festival along the Potomac River. This event attracts participants from various communities, including non-Chinese individuals who want to experience the festive atmosphere.

Dragon Boat Festival in Indonesia: Padang, Jakarta, and Beyond

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In Indonesia, Dragon Boat Festival traditions remain strong in Chinese communities, especially in cities with significant Chinese populations.

• Padang, which has a long history with the Chinese community, holds international dragon boat races in Banjir Kanal GOR H. Agus Salim, Padang, West Sumatra. Bacang is an essential part of the celebration, often featuring fillings like chicken and peanuts.
• Jakarta, particularly in the Glodok and Ancol areas, is a major center for Dragon Boat Festival celebrations. Traditional markets and Chinese restaurants typically offer a variety of bacang during the festival period.

Global Celebrations: Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Other Countries

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Beyond the U.S. and Indonesia, the Dragon Boat Festival is widely celebrated in many parts of the world:

• Hong Kong is famous for the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, which attract participants from around the globe.
• Taiwan has a tradition of making unique bacang recipes and hosting grand festivals that reflect the competitive spirit of dragon boat races.
• Australia also have active Chinese communities that organize Dragon Boat Festivals. These festivals feature exciting races that draw numerous tourists.

Conclusion

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The Dragon Boat Festival and Qingming festival is not just a traditional celebration but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds in China and worldwide. Bacang, as an integral part of this tradition, serves as a symbol of respect and cultural heritage, preserved in various forms across different regions. With the expanding Chinese diaspora, this festival has become a global phenomenon, enjoyed by people of all backgrounds who seek to connect with Chinese culture.