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What is Pest-Repellent Day and What Do We Do on This Day?

The summer solstice marks a special day in Vietnam, known as the "Tet Doan Ngo," or the "Insect-Killing Festival." This unique celebration is also observed in other countries, such as China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, each with their own cultural traditions and rituals.

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31 August, 2024

Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Worm-Killing Day, is a traditional holiday celebrated in several East Asian countries, including Vietnam. Join us as we explore more about this unique festival in the article below!

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1 When is Worm-Killing Day?

Worm-Killing Day, also known as Doan Ngo Festival or Duanwu Festival, originated from China. Over time, this festival has been adopted by other East Asian countries, including Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and North Korea, each with its own unique traditions and meanings.

Worm-Killing Day has its origins in China.

This festival is held annually on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, which falls on June 3rd, 2022, in the Gregorian calendar. The name “Doan Ngo” comes from the fact that the festival starts at noon, specifically between 11 am and 1 pm, which is known as “ngo” in Vietnamese.

The festival is held annually on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month.

During this time, the sun is at its closest to the Earth, resulting in extremely yang energy. Our ancestors believed that this yang energy could purge bad luck and illness, and that killing worms and pests during this time could protect crops and improve health, leading to a bountiful harvest.

For further reading: What to do on Worm-Killing Day?

2 What is usually done on Worm-Killing Day?

In South Korea, people eat Suritteok and Yaktteok, rice cakes made with grains and nuts.

Each culture has its own unique way of celebrating Worm-Killing Day. In South Korea, instead of offering sacrifices like the Vietnamese, they dance, wash their hair with soapwort, participate in wrestling matches, and eat Suritteok and Yaktteok, rice cakes made with grains and nuts, wishing for a peaceful and lucky year.

Dragon boat racing is a popular activity during the festival.

In China, where the Duanwu Festival originated, people clean their houses, participate in dragon boat races, wear fragrant pouches to ward off evil spirits, and eat Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and drink realgar wine to ward off pests and toxins. They may also apply realgar wine to the faces, necks, or palms of children for good health.

Vietnamese people offer sacrifices to their ancestors during the Doan Ngo Festival.

In Vietnam, we first offer sacrifices to our ancestors, including (five-fruit trays), bánh gio (sticky rice dumplings wrapped in leaves), and glutinous rice wine. Depending on the region, additional dishes such as , , and … are also included, along with incense, fresh flowers, and votive paper.

Eating Zongzi and drinking glutinous rice wine are must-do activities on this day.

Additionally, we set up another offering for an outdoor ceremony. After the ceremony, family members gather to enjoy the food, and some may visit temples, pick tea leaves, or collect medicinal herbs like mugwort and basil. It is also customary to exchange well-wishes and blessings. Most importantly, everyone must eat Zongzi and drink glutinous rice wine or rice wine during the Doan Ngo Festival.

Above are some fascinating facts about the Doan Ngo Festival, along with other interesting information. Hopefully, this article has provided you with valuable and intriguing knowledge. Don’t forget to share your warmest greetings and best wishes with your loved ones and friends on this special occasion.

Frequently asked questions

Pest Repellent Day is an annual observance aimed at raising awareness about the importance of pest control and prevention. It is a day to take action and protect our homes, families, and communities from the harmful effects of pests.

Pest Repellent Day is celebrated on the first Monday of every April.

Pests such as insects and rodents can carry diseases, damage property, and cause other health and safety hazards. By observing Pest Repellent Day, we can learn about the different types of pests, the dangers they pose, and the best practices for pest control and prevention.

There are several ways to get involved and participate in Pest Repellent Day. You can start by educating yourself and others about pest control and prevention. This may include learning about the different types of pests, their life cycles, and the most effective methods for control and prevention. You can also take practical steps to pest-proof your home, such as sealing cracks and gaps, keeping your home clean and tidy, and using pest repellents or traps. Additionally, you can support community initiatives or donate to organizations that work towards pest control and prevention.

There are a number of things you can do to protect your home from pests. This includes regular cleaning and maintenance, sealing entry points for pests, proper waste management, and using pest control products or services. It is also important to address any moisture issues, as water sources can attract pests. Maintaining a pest-free yard or garden is equally important, ensuring that plants are not providing shelter or food for pests.