In the vibrant village, excitement pervaded the air for the annual Dragon Boat Festival. It was a day filled with cheers, competition, and delicious treats. A young boy was especially excited to watch the dragon boat races right from the riverbank! The boats were bright and colourful, shaped like dragons with scales painted in dazzling patterns, and there was a drum in the frontmost position on the boat.
Before the races began, his mom handed him a sticky rice dumpling, wrapped in bamboo leaves. ‘These are zongzi,’ she explained. ‘We eat them during the festival to remember a Chinese patriotic poet who dedicated his life to his country.’ They tasted the sweet and savoury fillings of the zongzi as the drummers began their beat. THUMP, THUMP, THUMP! The sound echoed over the water, guiding the paddlers in the boats. ‘Ready, set, go!’ shouted the race starter, and the dragon boats leaped forward. All paddlers worked in perfect rhythm, with their paddles slicing through the water like synchronised swimmers. All audience cheered loudly and their eyes filled with excitement.
As the final race was coming to an end, the boy spotted his favourite team pulling ahead. The crowd’s cheers grew louder, and the boy jumped up and down in excitement. With a final burst of energy, his favourite team crossed the finish line first, winning the race! The boy’s face lit up with joy as he hugged his mom. ‘This is the best Dragon Boat Festival ever!’ he exclaimed.
Cool Words
(especially of a smell or feeling) to spread through and be noticeable in every part of a place or thing
extremely attractive or exciting
showing love for your country and being proud of it
to (cause to) happen at the same time
If your face or eyes light up, or if a smile lights up your face, you suddenly look happy.
