Hubei Farmers Race Against Time to Revive Zongzi Tradition

From Lockdown Losses to Zongzi Hustle: A Dragon Boat Festival Comeback

This Dragon Boat Festival, the aroma of zongzi—sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves—is more than just a cultural staple. For farmers in Hubei Province, it’s a lifeline. After pandemic lockdowns slashed their income, workers along the Yangtze River started gathering leaves a month early this April, racing to recover losses before the June celebration.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Sales remain stuck at 60% of pre-pandemic levels, pushing these farmers to embrace digital solutions. ‘We’re streaming leaf-picking tutorials and selling online,’ one worker shared. While the hustle is real, there’s silver lining: ‘Having family nearby keeps us going,’ another added, smiling.

Why This Matters

Zongzi isn’t just food—it’s a bridge between generations. As Hubei’s farmers blend ancient techniques with TikTok-era hustle, their story mirrors global struggles to preserve heritage amid crisis. Will their bet on e-commerce pay off? The world—and hungry festival-goers—are watching.

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Hubei farmers work hard to make up for epidemic losses

cgtn.com