China - Qixi Festival

About

The Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine's Day or the Double Seventh Festival, is a significant cultural event in China. It is celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, typically in late summer. The festival is deeply rooted in Chinese mythology, commemorating the legend of Niulang (the Cowherd) and Zhinü (the Weaver Girl), star-crossed lovers separated by the Milky Way who are allowed to reunite once a year on this day. This ancient tale has been a cornerstone of Chinese folklore for over 2,000 years, symbolizing enduring love and loyalty. The Qixi Festival combines traditional customs with modern expressions of love. Historically, it involved young women showcasing their needlework skills and praying for wisdom and a good marriage. Today, it includes activities like stargazing, gift-giving, and eating traditional foods such as Qiao Guo, a sweet pastry. Despite its evolution into a more commercial celebration, the festival remains a cherished occasion for couples and families to express love and gratitude. It is not a public holiday but is widely observed across China, sharing similarities with Western Valentine's Day while maintaining its unique cultural identity.