Past Event
Qixi Festival – Love Among the Stars
Discover the ancient Chinese love story written in the night sky at the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Celebrate Qixi Festival, often known as Chinese Valentine's Day, with a fascinating journey into Chinese mythology, astronomy and storytelling at the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
On Wednesday 19 August, visitors can collect a complimentary Love Among the Stars activity leaflet and uncover the centuries-old legend of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd. This free experience reveals how one of China's most beloved love stories is connected to two real stars that can still be seen in the night sky today.
The festival tells the story of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, two lovers separated by the Jade Emperor and divided by the Milky Way, known in the legend as the Silver River. According to the tale, a bridge of magpies forms once a year, allowing the pair to reunite for a single day.
For centuries, this story has been linked to the stars Vega and Altair, which appear on opposite sides of the Milky Way. The festival offers a unique glimpse into how ancient cultures used storytelling to explain and connect with the natural world.
The beautifully designed take-home guide explores:
It's an easy, engaging and educational way to discover Chinese culture while exploring one of Sydney's most tranquil and picturesque gardens.
The activity is designed for visitors of all ages and provides a unique opportunity to connect with Chinese heritage through storytelling, stargazing and hands-on discovery.
Free with Garden admission. Available while stocks last.
Want more? See what else is happening in Darling Harbour.
On Wednesday 19 August, visitors can collect a complimentary Love Among the Stars activity leaflet and uncover the centuries-old legend of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd. This free experience reveals how one of China's most beloved love stories is connected to two real stars that can still be seen in the night sky today.
What is Qixi Festival?
Qixi Festival is one of China's most celebrated traditional festivals, observed on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month.The festival tells the story of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, two lovers separated by the Jade Emperor and divided by the Milky Way, known in the legend as the Silver River. According to the tale, a bridge of magpies forms once a year, allowing the pair to reunite for a single day.
For centuries, this story has been linked to the stars Vega and Altair, which appear on opposite sides of the Milky Way. The festival offers a unique glimpse into how ancient cultures used storytelling to explain and connect with the natural world.
Explore the Connection Between Mythology and Astronomy
As part of Qixi Festival, visitors to the Chinese Garden of Friendship can pick up a free Love Among the Stars leaflet that brings the legend to life.The beautifully designed take-home guide explores:
- The story of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd
- The connection between Qixi Festival and the stars Vega and Altair
- How mythology and astronomy have been intertwined throughout history
- A simple constellation activity that families and young explorers can enjoy at home
It's an easy, engaging and educational way to discover Chinese culture while exploring one of Sydney's most tranquil and picturesque gardens.
Perfect for Families, Culture Lovers and Curious Minds
Whether you're visiting with children, exploring Darling Harbour for the day or looking to learn more about Chinese traditions, this special Qixi Festival experience offers something a little different.The activity is designed for visitors of all ages and provides a unique opportunity to connect with Chinese heritage through storytelling, stargazing and hands-on discovery.
Free with Garden admission. Available while stocks last.
Want more? See what else is happening in Darling Harbour.
19
Aug
When
Wed 19 Aug, 10am - 5pm
Precinct
Price
Sign Up
Stay up to date with the latest events and offers in Darling Harbour.