In the 50's and 60's, many Chinatown streets turned into
fairyland of lights as different "Qi Jie Hui"
(Seven Sisters' Association, comprising of mainly single
females) competed with each other to put up the most
beautiful "shrines" to Niu Lang and Zhi Nu.
The "shrines" were mainly made of paper and
fresh fruits, flowers and cosmetics. Also, devotees
took pains to make miniature clothes, shoes, and artifacts
from paper and embroidery for display.
Zhi Nu was the 7th daughter of the Jade Emperor.
One day while visiting earth, she met and fell in love
with Niu Lang. After their marriage, her mother
discovered Zhi Nu’s absence and ordered Zhi Nu to return
to Heaven immediately when she found out what has
happened. However, looking at the two loving couples,
the Jade Empress took pity on them and thus allowed them
to meet once a year. So, on the seventh night of the
seventh moon, maples would form a bridge for the fairy
wife to meet her mortal husband.
‘Qi Qiao Jie’, a romantic Chinese Festival, is
celebrated on the 7th night of the seventh
lunar month. It commemorates the annual reunion of
the cowherd (Niu Lang) and the weaving Maiden (Zhi Nu). It
is a time to emphasize the joy and beauty of love; it is
also an occasion to reiterate and demonstrate appreciation
and care for your beloved ones.