Qixi Festival, also known as the Begging for Dexterity Festival or Maiden's Day, is a traditional festival in China and some other East Asian countries, deeply intertwined with the beautiful legend of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid. Celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month every year, this festival is not only a romantic celebration akin to Valentine’s Day but also an expression of longing for beautiful love and family reunion.

Origins of Qixi

The origins of the Qixi Festival can be traced back to the Han Dynasty, or possibly earlier. According to records in The Book of Songs ("Shijing"), there is mention of "the fire of July, clothes given in September," suggesting a possible connection to what would later become the Qixi Festival. By the Eastern Han period, the "Miscellaneous Records of the Western Capital" ("Xijing Zaji") clearly documented celebratory activities associated with the Qixi Festival, marking its formal establishment as a recognized holiday.

Legend of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid

The most famous traditional story associated with the Qixi Festival is that of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid. It is said that the Heavenly Weaver Girl (Vega) fell in love with the earthly cowherd, but their love violated celestial rules and they were separated by the Milky Way by the Empress of Heaven. They are allowed to meet once a year on the magpie bridge, which forms on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. On this day, thousands of magpies fly to create a bridge, enabling the lovers to reunite briefly. This story expresses people’s yearning for pure love and sympathy for the pain of separation.

Celebration Customs

The traditional customs of the Qixi Festival are rich and varied, reflecting ancient Chinese women's pursuit of wisdom and skill. Most representative among these is the "Begging for Dexterity." Ancient maidens would pray to the Weaving Maid on this day for the acquisition of dexterous skills, demonstrating their abilities through threading needles and crafting handicrafts. In addition, people would eat Qiaoguo (cakes), release river lanterns, stargaze, recite poetry, paint, and hold various gatherings and games.

Cultural Significance

The Qixi Festival is more than just a festival about love; it carries profound cultural significance. It emphasizes the values of family harmony, marital affection, and also embodies the ancients' reverence for nature and curiosity about the mysteries of the universe. Over time, the Qixi Festival has become an emotional bond that transcends time and space, connecting love stories from ancient to modern times, becoming part of humanity's shared cultural heritage.

In modern society, while many traditional customs have faded, the Qixi Festival remains an important moment for Chinese people to express affection. Couples exchange gifts and spend quality time together, while families and friends take the opportunity to deepen relationships and enjoy the joy of togetherness.
During the traditional Qixi Festival in China, women often dress up to present their most beautiful side. Although there are no specific cosmetic traditions associated with Qixi itself, on this day, women might use special beauty products to enhance their charm. These typically include several categories:

1. Base Makeup Products:
   - Foundation Liquid or Cream: Used to create an even and smooth skin texture.
   - Concealer: To cover facial imperfections such as dark circles and acne.
   - Loose Powder or Setting Powder: Helps set makeup, preventing smudging and ensuring it lasts longer.

2. Eyebrow Products:
   - Eyebrow Pencil or Powder: To draw natural eyebrow shapes, enhancing facial contours.

3. Eye Makeup:
   - Eyeshadow: Using eyeshadow palettes of different colors, various styles of eye makeup can be created.
   - Eyeliner Pen or Liquid Liner: Outlines clear eyeliner for brighter, more spirited eyes.
   - Mascara: Increases lash thickness and curl, making the gaze more captivating.

4. Blush:
   - Cream or Powder Blush: Adds a healthy rosy hue to cheeks.

5. Lip Makeup:
   - Lipstick or Lip Gloss: Offers a wide range of color choices, from natural nude shades to vibrant reds.
   - Lip Liner: To outline lips, preventing lipstick from bleeding.

6. Perfume:
   - A light perfume adds personal allure and leaves a lasting impression.

7. Hair Care and Styling Products:
   - Hair Wax or Gel: Shapes hairstyles, giving hair more definition.
   - Hair Fragrance Spray: Brings a fresh scent to the hair.

8. Skin Care Products:
   - Toner, Serum, and Moisturizer: Ensures skin's moisture balance, allowing makeup to adhere better.

On romantic occasions like Qixi, women may lean towards romantic-themed makeup, such as pink or peachy eyeshadows and blushes, along with gentle lip colors, to create a sweet yet elegant atmosphere. Of course, the specific cosmetics used and the style of makeup will vary based on individual preferences, the occasion, and fashion trends.