Every year on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, couples across China and parts of Asia pause to celebrate one of the most romantic festivals of the year: Qixi Festival, sometimes called the Chinese Valentine’s Day.
But what’s the story behind it, and why has this legend endured for more than 2,000 years?
The Legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl
Long ago, there lived a humble cowherd, Niulang, and a heavenly weaver girl, Zhinu. Despite belonging to different worlds, one mortal, one divine, they fell deeply in love. Their union was forbidden, and the Queen Mother of Heaven separated them across the Milky Way.
Heartbroken, they longed for each other until magpies took pity on their love. Once a year, on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, the birds would form a bridge across the stars, allowing Niulang and Zhinu to meet for a single night.
This is why the Qixi Festival is also known as the Night of Sevens, symbolizing eternal devotion and reunion against all odds.
How Qixi Was Traditionally Celebrated
In ancient China, Qixi wasn’t just about romance. Women would showcase their weaving and embroidery skills, pray for wisdom, or wish for happiness in love. Young girls would often make offerings of fruit and flowers to Zhinu, hoping to be blessed with grace and good fortune.
Even today, you’ll find people marking the night by stargazing — looking up to the summer sky where the stars Vega (Zhinu) and Altair (Niulang) shine across the Milky Way, “meeting” once a year.
Qixi Today: A Modern Take
Over time, Qixi has become more like a Chinese Valentine’s Day. Couples exchange gifts, go on dates, and of course — flowers have become the go-to gesture of love. But what makes Qixi unique is its emphasis on the beauty of longing, loyalty, and cherishing connections.
In fact, it doesn’t only have to be about romance. Many now see it as a day to celebrate love in all forms — to honour family, friendships, and self-love, too.
A Bloom for Every Kind of Love
At JM Flower, we believe Qixi is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a reminder that love — whether for a partner, a friend, or yourself — is worth celebrating. And what better way to say it than with blooms that speak the language of the heart?
Our handcrafted arrangements are designed For Every Kind of Love. From classic roses symbolizing romance, to cheerful sunflowers that brighten a friend’s day, or elegant lilies that say “thank you” to a parent — there’s something for every story of love.
👉 This Qixi, discover our collection of blooms and make your own story of love across the stars. [Shop Now →]