七夕:中国的情人节

Chinese lovers are spoiled with more than one occasion to celebrate their love since we have now two special days for love. Back to the roots of Qixi festival, the love filled legend.

Originated during the Han Dynasty about twenty centuries ago, Qi Xi became popular in the Tang and Song Dynasties, and has survived throughout the years as one of the most enjoyed Chinese traditions.

Cai Min, executive director of Communication ASSN. of China, says, "The story of Qi Xi and celebration reflects Chinese people’s traditional value of love, that we take family and kinship very seriously, we want to stay with our lovers, have kids and never be apart. I’d say this is one of the most precious moral values of Chinese people. "

Jia Jia, relationship consultant, says, "People celebrate Qi Xi because they long for positive influences from fine examples. It’s an expectation of a perfect relationship."

Besides red roses, wines, chocolate and romantic dinners, Chinese couples are also reviving the traditional methods of celebrating Qi Xi. Activities such as stargazing and releasing lotus lanterns on rivers have become popular in recent years. Some try their luck at match-making fairs, an event that brings single men and women together, hoping to find their long lost love.