Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the cultural significance of the Qixi Festival, highlighting its origins from the legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, as well as the traditional practice of "Qiqiao" or "skill-seeking" activities [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Background - The Cowherd and Weaver Girl legend is believed to have originated over two thousand years ago, with references found in ancient texts like the "Book of Songs" [2]. - The festival became officially recognized during the Han Dynasty, with the addition of the magpie bridge element for the couple's annual reunion [2]. - The story evolved through oral tradition, leading to the romanticized version known today [2]. Group 2: Qiqiao Practices - "Qiqiao" encompasses various traditional activities, with "threading needles" being the earliest recorded practice during the Han Dynasty [3]. - The practice gained popularity during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, with significant cultural references in Tang and Song poetry [3]. - Other methods included "throwing needles to test skill," which became prevalent during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, where women would observe needle shadows to determine their sewing skills [3]. Group 3: Cultural Significance and Modern Interpretation - The Qixi Festival has evolved into a celebration of love, often referred to as "Chinese Valentine's Day," providing a time for expressing romantic feelings [6]. - The festival's traditional practices, such as "Qiqiao" and the cultural significance of the day, offer opportunities for deeper emotional connections beyond the modern interpretation [6]. - There is a call to explore and promote the broader cultural aspects of the Qixi Festival, moving beyond its current association with romantic love to include its rich historical and cultural roots [6].

Group 1 - The Qixi Festival, also known as the "Double Seventh Festival," is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, characterized by its romantic themes [2] - The festival has evolved from natural celestial worship and the legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl into a day filled with rich customs and meanings [2] - Traditional foods associated with the festival include "Qiaoguo," a crispy and sweet snack symbolizing skill and ingenuity, along with other treats like sugar and fruits [2] Group 2 - The Qixi Festival was included in the first batch of national intangible cultural heritage in 2006, highlighting its cultural significance [2] - The festival has transcended its origins in China, becoming an international cultural symbol over the past two thousand years [2] - In Japan, people celebrate by writing wishes on colored paper and hanging them on bamboo branches, symbolizing the delivery of wishes to the celestial river [2]

Core Insights - The article discusses the evolution of "Qiqiao Guozi" (巧果), a traditional food associated with the Qixi Festival in China, highlighting its transformation into a modern consumer product that appeals to contemporary tastes and preferences [1][2]. Group 1: Traditional Significance and Cultural Background - "Qiqiao Guozi," also known as "Qiqiao cakes," is a traditional food that symbolizes the Qixi Festival, where people pray for skillfulness and happiness [1]. - The preparation of "Qiqiao Guozi" involves traditional techniques, including hand-carving molds, which are part of the intangible cultural heritage in regions like Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang [1][5]. Group 2: Modern Innovations and Consumer Appeal - The traditional ingredients of "Qiqiao Guozi" have been innovated with new flavors, shapes, and materials, making it a popular item in the Qixi consumer market [2]. - Various brands, such as Beijing's "Daoxiangcun" and Weihai's "Jinmaidou," have introduced unique fillings and designs, appealing to different consumer demographics, including children and the elderly [2][5]. Group 3: Expanding Consumption Scenarios - "Qiqiao Guozi" has transcended its traditional role, being incorporated into various consumer experiences, such as baking classes and themed activities in tourist spots [5]. - Cross-industry collaborations, such as pairing "Qiqiao Guozi" with coffee or tea, have emerged, attracting younger consumers and creating new social media trends [7]. Group 4: Economic Impact and Industry Growth - The production and sale of "Qiqiao Guozi" have stimulated various sectors, including raw material supply, mold manufacturing, retail, and cultural tourism, contributing to the overall growth of the holiday economy [7].