Valentine's Day, a globally celebrated holiday of romance, has unique cultural expressions and customs in both China and France.
The Chinese version of Valentine's Day, known as Qixi, has its origins in a touching love story - the legend of a cowherd and a weaver's girl. According to this story, on the seventh day of the seventh month of the traditional Chinese calendar, the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd meet again on the Milky Way over the Bridge of Magpies. This day has since become a symbol of devoted love.
A florist in Nantong, Jiangsu Province, displays a variety of bouquets prepared for the Qixi Festival on August 9, 2024. /CFP
A florist in Nantong, Jiangsu Province, displays a variety of bouquets prepared for the Qixi Festival on August 9, 2024. /CFP
Today, the Qixi holiday has turned into a special day for couples to express their love. Exchanging gifts, romantic dinners and spending time together have become the main ways of celebration. This year, Qixi Day will be celebrated on August 10.
France is the epitome of romance, which is why Valentine's Day is filled with poetry and elegance. Every year on February 14, the French celebrate Valentine's Day to honour love and the deep bond between partners. Flowers, chocolate, champagne and candlelit dinners are the hallmarks of this romantic holiday in France.
A couple pose for a photographer in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2024. /CFP
A couple pose for a photographer in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris on February 14, 2024, Valentine's Day. /CFP
Paris, the most romantic city in the world, attracts countless couples on a love pilgrimage during Valentine's Day. Strolling along the Seine River and admiring the Eiffel Tower at night are popular activities for lovers.
Although the ways of celebrating Valentine's Day in China and France differ, they are the same in expressing love and beauty.
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