Celebrate Qixi Festival with your loved ones (2)

Customs of Qixi Festival

•Spot Niulang and Zhinyu in the Night Sky

According to the legend, Niulang and Zhinyu became stars Altair (牛郎星) and Vega (织女星), which are closest on the day of Qixi. Given a clear night sky, you can find Altair which is the middle of three stars to the east of the Milky Way, while Vega is in a cluster of six just to the west.

•Give Handmade Gifts

Zhinyu was a very skilled weaver with almost magical hands. Traditionally, girls would pray for needlework ability, a traditional skill for a good wife, as well as a happy marriage. Thus this festival is also called “Qiqiao Festival,” literally Begging for Skills Festival.

Although girls nowadays no longer need weaving skills, knitting and crafting are still rather popular among young people. Some girls like to make handmade scarves or hats for their loved ones to express their love and appreciation.

(Photo/Pixabay)

•Plan a Romantic Date

Ultimately, Qixi Festival is about celebrating love, so romantic gestures are unavoidable. Apart from homemade meals and handmade gifts, don’t forget to plan a romantic date for that special someone.

Speaking of dating, here are some recommending romantic movies to get you in the mood!