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Qixi Festival, also known as the Double Seventh Festival or the Chinese Valentine's Day, is one of China's most cherished traditional celebrations. This festival, rooted deeply in ancient customs, is held on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, marking its origins from the Han Dynasty and reaching its peak popularity during the Tang and Song dynasties.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Tradition
Originally named the "Qiqiao Festival" or "Daughter's Day," Qixi was a time when women gathered to showcase their skills in needlework and craftsmanship. They would engage in activities like threading needles and testing their dexterity, hoping to gain wisdom and improve their skills. This festival began as a celebration of female craftsmanship and has evolved into a day of expressing romantic wishes.
The Legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl
Central to the Qixi Festival is the poignant legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. According to the tale, the Weaver Girl, a celestial maiden skilled in weaving, fell in love with the Cowherd, a humble man from the mortal world. Their love angered the Jade Emperor, who separated them by creating the Milky Way. However, their unwavering love touched the hearts of the magpies, who form a bridge across the Milky Way every Qixi, allowing the couple to reunite for a single day each year.
Traditional Qixi Customs
The festival is rich with traditional customs and activities, many of which revolve around showcasing and testing various skills:
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Needle Threading Under the Moonlight: This challenging game involves threading needles with multiple eyes under the moonlight, reflecting the participants' skill and dexterity. Traditionally, women used special needles with seven or nine eyes for this task, and the quickest to complete the task was considered the most skilled.
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Crafting Delicacies: Traditional foods like "Qiqiao fruit," made from oil, flour, sugar, and honey, are prepared during this festival. Skilled women would create intricate designs, such as flowers or birds, reflecting their culinary expertise.
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Various Activities: The festival also includes activities like praying to the Weaver Girl, testing needle skills, and other traditional rituals. These customs highlight the importance of skill and artistry, rather than romance alone.
The Modern Significance
Today, while Qixi Festival still honors traditional craftsmanship, it has also become a time to celebrate romantic relationships, mirroring its association with the legendary love story. It stands as a reminder of the values of skill and perseverance and encourages individuals to cherish and develop their talents.
A Tribute to Women's Skills and Independence
In ancient times, women showcased their skills in various fields, from cooking and medicine to commerce and poetry. This festival not only celebrates romantic love but also honors the empowerment and achievements of women. As the writer Xiao Qiushui aptly put it, "Everyone desires freedom, but freedom requires conditions. The most important condition is a skill that provides for one's livelihood."
Whether you're celebrating romance or honoring your craft, Qixi Festival remains a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the enduring elegance and strength of women throughout history.
Celebrate Qixi Festival with us and immerse yourself in the beauty of tradition and the magic of timeless craftsmanship!
