The+Qi+Qiao+Festival

The Qi Qiao Festival also called the Double-Seventh Festival which is celebrated on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month ， is a traditional festival full of romance. The Chinese Valentine’s Day has a beautiful legend passed down from generation to generation.

Once there was an honest and kind-hearted fellow named Niu Lang (Cowhand). He was driven out of home by his sister-in-law. One day ， a fairy from heaven Zhi Nv (Weaver Maid) fell in love with him and married him. They lived a happy life and gave birth to a boy and a girl. Unfortunately ， the Queen Mother found out the fact and brought the Weaver Maid back.

With the help of celestial cattle ， the Cowhand flew to heaven with his children. At the time when he was about to catch up with his wife ， the Queen Mother made a billowy river. They were seated on the two banks forever. Their loyalty to love touched magpies， so every year thousands of magpies built a bridge for them to meet. It is said that if you stand under a grapevine on that day ， you can probably overhear what they are talking about.

So on the double seventh day, don’t forget to send your lover some romantic gifts on this day. Send a beautiful self-made card or a bunch of flowers, or just go to have a romantic candle light dinner while expressing your deep love to him or her.


 * Here are resources and assignments (5) about the QiQiao Festival. **