Bulgarian dragon boat athletes celebrate festival in Ningbo

The Chelopech dragon boat team from Bulgaria competes in the race. [Photo/Yongpai App]

The rhythmic beat of drums and the splash of paddles filled the waterways of Yunlong town in Ningbo's Yinzhou district as Chinese and Bulgarian dragon boat athletes came together to celebrate Dragon Boat Festival on June 18.

A highlight of the day was the launch of the One-Square-Meter Museum, a micro‑exhibition designed to bring traditional culture into everyday community spaces.

Through compact displays, visitors explored Ningbo's Dragon Boat Festival customs — from hanging mugwort and calamus to enjoying zongzi, lotus cakes, and seasonal foods. Tiger‑head hats and shoes, symbols of protection, added a festive touch.

The exhibition also featured Bulgarian folk dolls and woolen crafts, underscoring growing cultural exchange. The mayor of Chelopech joined via video link to offer his congratulations.

After an eye‑dotting ceremony, the China-Bulgaria City Dragon Boat Friendship Race and the Ningbo Village Dragon Boat Invitational began, featuring 25 teams and over 500 athletes.

A Bulgarian participant called the experience "one of the best of my life", praising Ningbo's warmth and beauty. Chelopech's city councilor added that dragon boating in China represents not only sport, but history and civilization.

Bulgarian dragon boat athletes visit the One-Square-Meter Museum. [Photo/Yongpai App]