Zongzi and Colorful Braids: International Students Celebrate Dragon Boat Festival at Shandong  Cultural Vocational Industry College 

On June 18, on the eve of the Dragon Boat Festival, the School of International Education at Shandong Vocational College of Cultural Industries held a cultural experience event for international students. Led by the dean and faculty members, students from various countries made zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and had colorful braided cords tied on their wrists—a traditional custom meant to ward off evil and bring good fortune.

During the activity, teachers guided the students step by step in folding bamboo leaves, filling them with glutinous rice, and tying them with strings. At first, many struggled, but with patient instruction, they soon produced an assortment of creatively shaped zongzi. After steaming, everyone enjoyed their homemade treats. The dean also shared the legend of Qu Yuan and the significance of the festival, while each student received a five-colored cord as a blessing.

The dean emphasized that hands-on experience helps international students better understand Chinese culture and fosters cross-cultural friendship. The students expressed their delight and gratitude, saying they felt both the festive joy and the warmth of the college community. The college plans to continue using traditional festivals as opportunities to tell China’s stories and build bridges between cultures.