Qixi Festival 2025
Date: August 29, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Taiwan Public Holidays
Description
Qixi Festival in Taiwan is a special day about love and old stories. It comes from a folk tale about two lovers who meet once a year. People see it as a romantic and emotional holiday.
The festival falls on the seventh day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar. Because the date follows the moon, it changes each year on the regular calendar. This timing links the holiday to traditional Chinese ways of counting time.
For many people, Qixi is a time to think about love, longing, and keeping promises. It helps young people learn about family stories and cultural values. Older generations pass the meaning along to children and teens.
Qixi is also important because it keeps an old legend alive. The story teaches about patience, hope, and the power of reunion. This makes the holiday meaningful beyond just romance.
Traditions
Many people visit temples to make offerings of fruit, flowers and incense. They pray and light candles while asking for good relationships. Worshipers also leave small gifts and notes at altars.
Young women show needlework, embroidery and weaving skills in community events. Schools and neighborhoods hold craft displays and contests. People bring homemade sweets and pastries to share with friends and family.
Couples exchange flowers, chocolates and small presents. They often eat special snacks from night markets and enjoy themed desserts sold just for the festival. Street stalls sell colorful treats and packaged cakes.
A common ritual is writing wishes on paper and leaving them at temple boards or tying them to branches. Many also burn incense and offer thanks together.
Travel Tips
Expect shops, banks, and some attractions to have reduced hours or be closed on the main day. Book transport and hotels early. Trains and highways get busy in the evening and weekend, so plan extra travel time and check schedules.
Join public events or light shows for safe celebrations. Stay in well lit, crowded areas at night and keep belongings secure. Try local food markets open for visitors and use contactless payments where possible to avoid queues and cash issues.