What is Qixi Festival?

Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine's Day or Double Seventh Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar. It has a long history dating back over 2,000 years and is based on an ancient legend about two lovers who were separated by their social status.

Why do people celebrate Qixi Festival?

The story goes that there was once a young woman named Chang'e who fell in love with a mortal man named Zhongliu. However, their love was forbidden because Chang'e was destined to live on the moon while Zhongliu lived on earth. One day, Chang'e met an old man who told her that she could return to earth for one night every year if she promised not to eat any food from heaven. Chang'e agreed and returned to earth under the light of the full moon.

How do people celebrate Qixi Festival today?

Today, people celebrate Qixi Festival by visiting temples and watching performances related to the legend of Chang'e and Zhongliu. They also make offerings such as incense sticks and fruit at home or in temples dedicated to this festival. Some couples even fast during this time period as part of their vows of love for each other.

Is there any connection between Qixi Festival and Western holidays?

While there are no direct connections between Qixi Festival and Western holidays like Valentine's Day or St. Valentine's Day (February 14th), they share some similarities due to cultural exchange over time. The idea behind these celebrations is similar - they both symbolize romantic love between two individuals.

What does "七夕节 英文" mean?

"七夕节 英文" translates into "Qixi Festival English." This term refers specifically to how foreign language speakers would refer to this holiday when discussing it among themselves or with others abroad.

Can I find modern adaptations of this celebration outside China?

In recent years, more countries have started celebrating their own versions of Qixi Festivals inspired by Chinese culture but adapted according to local customs and traditions worldwide!