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Qixi Festival

Experience the magic of love and stargazing at the Qixi Festival, also known as the Chinese Valentine's Day. Don't miss the celestial spectacle!

Wednesday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEQixi Festival (7th day 7th Chinese lunar month)

OBSERVED INChina

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYAsian Heritage

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Jet set your dreams to the stars and get ready for a romance-filled adventure on August 10, because it's the traditional Qixi Festival! This magical occasion, also known as the Chinese Valentine's Day, is an ancient celebration recognized for over 2,000 years. It originates from a legendary love story between the seventh daughter of the Goddess of Heaven and a humble cowherd boy. Their tale has been passed down from generation to generation, and is now commemorated with star gazing as everyone eagerly waits for the two stars, Vega and Altair, representing the lovers, to come closest. Experience the heartwarming festivities filled with love, yearning, and celestial beauty during this enchanted festival! Astoundingly beautiful and brimming with emotion, the Qixi Festival is truly a stellar celebration of love!

TIMELINE

Qixi Festival Timeline

Origination of Qixi Festival

The Qixi Festival derives its beginnings from the renowned myth of the cowherd and the weaver girl during the Han Dynasty.

Royal Celebrations

During the Tang Dynasty, the Qixi Festival was observed with grandeur by the Royal family as well as the masses.

Discovery of Vega and Altair

In the Song Dynasty, Vega and Altair, stars representing the lovers, were added to maps and recognized in the festival.

Expansion of Traditions

During the Ming Dynasty, traditions such as women's sewing contests and worshiping the weaver girl emerged.

Modern Recognition

By the 1990s, Qixi Festival gained recognition as the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day in pop culture.

Qixi Festival Today

Today, Qixi Festival is celebrated with gift exchanges, romantic dinners, and stargazing, commemorating the enduring legend of celestial love.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Qixi Festival

Create a magnificent stargazing spot

Set up a comfortable outdoor area with twinkly fairy lights, cushions, and blankets—for a stargazing experience. Running a string of lights along the edge of an umbrella, or hanging lanterns from trees, can create a magical atmosphere similar to that of the star-filled sky.

COOK

Cook a romantic dinner

Prepare a traditional Chinese meal for your loved one. You could include dishes like 'double-seventh meatballs' or 'Qixi porridge', both known to be served during the Qixi festival to symbolize the unification of the couple celebrated in the festival.

WRITE

Write love letters

Take inspiration from the doomed lovers from the Qixi story and write your loved one a heartfelt letter expressing your emotions and commitment. This can be a romantic and deeply personal way to celebrate this day of love.

CRAFT

Craft some woven items

Qixi is also called the "Festival of Skills" where women showcase their talents in threading, weaving, and more. So, why not try your hand at creating a woven craft piece such as a small rug or coaster? This could also serve as a lovely gift!

GIFT

Gift traditional tokens

Gift your partner traditional tokens associated with the festival, like hair accessories or perfumes, to show your affection and honour the tradition. You can even use these as an opportunity to support local artisans.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Qixi Festival

It strengthens cultural appreciation and knowledge

Celebrating Qixi Festival is a way to learn about and appreciate an ancient and significant cultural tradition from another part of the world. It not only gives insights into the traditional Chinese perception of love but also deepens an understanding of Chinese culture and history.

It's a celebration of deep love

Qixi Festival, also known as the Chinese Valentine's Day, is inspired by a profound love story. It's a day that signifies the emotion of love and expresses it in a magical and celestial way, reminding us of the power and beauty of love.

It encourages creativity and expression

From creating a magnificent stargazing spot to cooking a traditional dinner or crafting woven items, Qixi Festival allows for creative displays of affection. It's a chance to show your love in unique ways and to celebrate your partner with personalized touch and efforts.

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