Typically celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar, the Dragon Boat Festival or Dumpling Festival is one of the most anticipated festivals in China. Celebrated as well among Chinese communities across South East Asia, this annual festivity commemorates the story of Qu Yuan, a poet and minister who lived during the Chu Dynasty.
It is said that Qu Yuan, who was once a trusted advisor of the King, fell out of favor when he upheld the welfare of the Chu people over a political alliance with a rival kingdom. Qu Yuan was then ordered into exile, and then drowned himself in despair in the Milo River. When his beloved people found out about this, they raced with their boats to the middle of the river in order to save him, but were unsuccessful. It is also said that after failing to save him, the people instead made dumplings and dropped them into the water, hoping the fish would eat them instead of Qu Yuan.
The usual festivities that are held each year include dragon boat racing, as well as the making and eating of traditional dumplings.
Homegrown restaurant chains Harbour City and Dimsum Break keep the tradition alive and celebrate the Dumpling Festival until July 15. Best-selling dumplings including Shaomai, Spring Rolls, Fried Wanton and Buchi are offered with 50% discount from 2:00 to 5:00 PM daily at all Harbour City and Dimsum Break stores in Cebu.
Harbour City has 3 branches located in Ayala Center Cebu, Marina Mall Mactan, and SM City Cebu, while Dimsum Break has 11 branches located in Ayala Center Cebu, Banilad Town Centre, Colon Street, Elizabeth Mall, Gaisano Grand Fiesta Mall, GMC Arcade Mactan, General Maxilom Ave., One Pavilion Mall, Pacific Mall Mandaue, Parkmall, and SM City Cebu.