Dragon boat racing had its origins in ancient China history. Originating 2,000 years ago, the races began as a way to ensure a bountiful harvest. The death of a statesman in the 4th century BCE had helped assimilate the boat races further into Chinese culture.
Over the century, various traditions, like throwing stones at rival teams, capsizing a boat or even having someone drown, have been weeded out.
However, some original rituals continue to be performed today. One of them is the “Awakening of the Dragon.” The other ritual is to induce the dragons to rest after the races are done.
Traditionally, it is four days before the festival when the dragon boats are moved out of their storage area. Once the dragon heads and tails are attached back onto the boats, a benediction ritual is performed with great pomp and ceremony. This includes burning of paper bills, making of offerings and the chanting of prayers to the heavenly deities.
The purpose of such a ritual is twofold — to ward off evil and to bless the boats. It is also supposed to make the boats themselves strong and fierce, as the dragons themselves.
By “Dotting of the Eye,” this ceremony brings life to the dragon. After all the prayers have been chanted, a community leader is then invited to dot the eyes of the dragon. For the upcoming noontime dragon boat opening ceremony on Sat., Sept. 23, the invited guests will be either dotting the dragon head or tying a ribbon. After that, the dragon boats will be truly blessed.