When you think of Valentine‘s Day, you probably imagine February 14. But in China, there is another romantic holiday with an even longer history — Qixi Festival (七夕节, Qī xī Jié). Often called “Chinese Valentine‘s Day,” this festival is rooted in a legendary love story and is still celebrated by couples today.
Understanding Qixi will not only give you cultural insight but also help you use the right Chinese words to join in the celebration. Let’s explore the story, traditions, and useful phrases you can use on this special day.
1. The Love Story Behind Qixi
The festival comes from the ancient legend of Niulang (牛郎, the Cowherd) and Zhinu (织女, the Weaver Girl). They were lovers separated by the Milky Way, only allowed to meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month.
That‘s why the festival is called 七夕 (Qī xī) — literally “Seventh Evening.”
Key vocabulary:
Qī xī Jié
七夕节
Qixi Festival
Niú láng
牛郎
the Cowherd
Zhī nǚ
织女
the Weaver Girl
2. How Chinese People Celebrate Today
Although based on legend, Qixi today is celebrated much like Valentine‘s Day in the West.
Typical traditions:
- Giving flowers 💐 (usually roses)
- Going out for dinner 🍽️
- Sending sweet messages 💌
- Small gifts like chocolates or jewelry 🎁
Useful sentences:
Qī xī kuài lè!
七夕快乐！
Happy Qixi!
Sòng nǐ yī fèn lǐ wù.
送你一份礼物。
Here‘s a gift for you.
Wǒ ài nǐ.
我爱你。
I love you.
3. Romantic Phrases You Can Use
If you want to surprise your partner (or practice your Chinese with a friend), try these simple but sweet phrases:
Nǐ duì wǒ hěn zhòng yào.
你对我很重要。
You are very important to me.
Hé nǐ zài yī qǐ hěn xìng fú.
和你在一起很幸福。
I feel happy being with you.
Wǒ xiǎng yǒng yuǎn hé nǐ zài yī qǐ.
我想永远和你在一起。
I want to be with you forever.
Cultural tip: In Chinese culture, people often express love through actions more than words. But saying “我爱你” (Wǒ ài nǐ) on Qixi is very sweet and special.
4. Gift-Giving Etiquette
Gifts don‘t need to be expensive — what matters most is thoughtfulness.
Safe choices:
- Flowers 🌹
- Chocolate 🍫
- Handmade cards 📝
- A small meaningful item 🎁
What to say when giving a gift:
Zhè shì sòng gěi nǐ de.
这是送给你的。
This is for you.
Xī wàng nǐ xǐ huān.
希望你喜欢。
I hope you like it.
Love Beyond Words: Celebrate Qixi with Confidence
Qixi Festival is a celebration of love, blending a romantic legend with modern traditions. Whether you‘re learning Chinese for culture, relationships, or travel, knowing a few simple Qixi phrases will help you connect with people on this special day.
At eChineseLearning, our native teachers not only teach you the right words but also the cultural background, so you can express yourself naturally and confidently in every situation — even on a romantic holiday.
📩 Book your free trial today, and say “七夕快乐” with confidence this year!
Quiz: Which of these is the BEST way to say “Happy Qixi” in Chinese?
A. 情人节快乐 (Qíngrén Jié kuài lè)
B. 七夕快乐 (Qīxī kuài lè)
C. 爱情快乐 (Àiqíng kuài lè)
👉 Comment your answer below!
