Chinese Valentine's Day - Qixi Festival

History: Chinese Valentine's Day, also known as Qixi Festival, falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month in the Chinese calendar. It is based on a romantic legend about a weaver girl named Zhinü and a cowherd named Niulang. Their love was not allowed, leading them to be separated by the Milky Way. Once a year, on Qixi, a flock of magpies would form a bridge allowing the lovers to meet for just one day.

Traditions:

• Offerings: Young women traditionally make offerings to Zhinü, praying for skills in needlecraft, along with hoping for a good husband.
• Needlework Competitions: In some regions, girls participate in competitions to showcase their sewing and embroidery skills, which are considered indicative of being a good wife.
• Gazing at Stars: People look to the sky to see stars Vega and Altair (representing Zhinü and Niulang) come close during the festival.
• Hanging Wildflowers: In certain areas, people hang wildflowers on their horns of oxen as an homage to Niulang's occupation.

Modern Celebrations: Nowadays, Qixi has taken on some Western Valentine's Day customs. Couples may:

• Exchange gifts such as flowers or chocolates.
• Go out for dinner or plan romantic outings.
• Share their affection through cards or social media messages.

While it retains some traditional elements, Qixi Festival has become increasingly commercialized and is celebrated much like Valentine's Day in other parts of the world.