Chinese Valentine’s Day or the Qixi (Qi Xi Jie) Festival is a unique Valentine's day in my life. Unlike the Western Valentine’s Day we know on February 14th, the Chinese version carries with it a beautiful blend of ancient legend, heartfelt romance, and local traditions. If you’re planning a trip to China or simply curious about this cultural gem, let me take you through my unforgettable experience.

Qixi Festival is China Valentine Day. The festival dates back over 2,000 years and is rooted in a moving legend about the love between a weaver girl (Zhinu) and a cowherd (Niulang). According to folklore, they were separated by the Milky Way and could only meet once a year, which is on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, when a flock of magpies formed a bridge for them to reunite. For me, that story alone already made the festival feel so much more poetic than our usual Valentine’s Day.

Unlike the fixed February 14th in the West, Chinese Qixi Festival follows the lunar calendar. This means the date changes every year, but it usually falls in August. In 2025, for instance, it lands on August 5th.

I had to keep an eye on the calendar when planning my trip, and if you're thinking of experiencing this celebration, I suggest doing the same!

During the Qixi Festival, couples all across China celebrate their love in sweet and meaningful ways. I saw people giving each other roses, chocolates, and thoughtful gifts, much like we do back home. But there’s more.

In ancient times, girls used to show off their embroidery skills or offer fruits to Zhinu for blessings of wisdom and love. While the tradition has evolved, in places like Beijing and Hangzhou, I spotted cultural performances, night markets with themed events, and even traditional matchmaking corners for singles.

One unforgettable moment for me was writing my wishes on a small lantern and watching it float up into the sky with dozens of others. It felt magical.

You might wonder: isn’t this just another version of Valentine’s Day? Well, yes and no.

While China Valentine Day is similarly focused on love and romance, the Qixi Festival carries a unique cultural and historical essence that makes it truly special. February 14th in China is celebrated too, but Qixi is often viewed as more deeply traditional and emotionally rich, tied to a mythical love story that has inspired poetry, TV shows, and even music.

In short, February 14th is flowers and dinner. Qixi Festival is a folklore and heartfelt meaning.

Another Chinese festival with romantic undertones is Chap Goh Mei, celebrated on the 15th day of Chinese New Year. I’ve attended that as well, and I noticed some differences.

Chap Goh Mei is sometimes dubbed the “Chinese Valentine’s Day” in places like Malaysia, where unmarried women toss mandarin oranges into rivers, hoping to find a good match. In contrast, Qixi Festival is more about celebrating existing love rather than seeking it.

So if you're single and looking for romance, Chap Goh Mei is more your speed. But if you're already in love or in the mood to celebrate love, then Qixi Festival is for you.

One of the great things about Qixi Festival is that it’s celebrated across China, though some places do it more elaborately than others. I personally loved being in Shanghai for the modern city vibe mixed with romantic light displays, but traditional towns like Zhouzhuang and Wuzhen offer more immersive experiences.

To join in, you can simply plan a trip to China in early August and explore the cultural events happening in major cities. I booked my holiday through Traveloka, and it was incredibly convenient flights, hotels, and even local activities all in one platform. I recommend doing the same to save time and stress.

If you’re traveling as a couple (or even solo), here are a few romantic ideas I personally loved during Chinese Valentine's Day:

During the festival, locals exchange lovely phrases and greetings. I learned a few and even used them when messaging my Chinese friends:

You can also write your own heartfelt message and surprise your loved one. Trust me, it means a lot during this time.

Besides Chinese Qixi Festival, China has a few other romantic or love-themed occasions. Here are a few I’ve explored or have on my bucket list:

My journey through Chinese Valentine's Day opened my eyes to the deeper, cultural layers of love celebrations in China. The Qixi Festival is more than chocolates and roses—it’s a tribute to eternal love, rooted in beautiful legends and lived through heartfelt traditions.

Whether you're in China with your partner or exploring solo, this festival is an experience worth having. Book early through Traveloka for great deals on activities, flights, and hotels. Immerse yourself in the romance, and don’t forget to look up at the stars, who knows, you might just see a magpie bridge forming in the night sky.