Qixi Festival, celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month of the Chinese calendar, falls on Aug 19 this year. Inspired by the legend of the cowherd Niulang and the weaver girl Zhinyu, it stands as one of China's most romantic traditional festivals, representing loyal love and reunion.

This summer, Shanghai is marking the occasion with a diverse range of events that go beyond the traditional date night. From lively markets and a traditional temple fair to a night tour with open-air film screenings, here are some ways to experience the festival in the city.

Fook Nock Qixi market

When: Aug 19-23

Where: M+ Xingfuli, No 381 Panyu Road, Changning district

This lively Qixi market showcases handmade crafts, trendy Chinese-style goods, vintage clothing, and local food. Visitors can browse stalls featuring specialty drinks, desserts, and retro collectibles. The market offers a relaxed atmosphere for couples and friends alike.

Yuyuan Garden Qixi temple fair

When: Aug 19-23

Where: Yuyuan Garden Malls, No 265 Middle Fangbang Road, Huangpu district

The temple fair combines classical garden settings with heritage crafts, Chinese-style performances, and traditional games such as touhu, or pitch-pot, and lantern riddles. During the day, visitors can stroll through the mall and explore the shops; after dark, the buildings light up, creating a fitting backdrop for the festival.

Lu Xun Park Qixi night tour

When: Aug 15-19, 5 pm to 9 pm

Where: Lu Xun Park, No 2288 North Sichuan Road, Hongkou district

This special market at Lu Xun Park's Weifeng Hall features Qixi-themed food, drinks, and traditional crafts, including weaving and incense-making. A moon-shaped light installation on the lawn outside the hall creates a dreamlike atmosphere, capturing the most romantic moments of the summer night.

From Aug 15 to 18, free film screenings start at 7 pm each night, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, venues mentioned above