Customs of the Dragon Boat Festival

A boy shows the five-color silk thread tied on his wrist. [Photo by Xu Wenhao/Asianewsphoto]

Tying five-color silk thread

According to folklore, tying five-color silk tread to wrists, ankles, and around neck protects children from evil. Five-color thread holds special significance in China in that it is thought to contain magical and healing properties. Children are not permitted to speak while their parents tie the five-color thread for them, neither are they allowed to remove it until the specified time. Only after the first summer rainfall can the children throw the thread into the river. This is thought to protect the children from plague and diseases.

Special coverage:Your guide to the Dragon Boat Festival