Beginning in the period of the Southern and Northern dynasties (420-589 A.D.), the romantic love story of the meeting of the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid once a year on this day has been passed down for more than a thousand years, known as "Chi Hsi" (Seventh Night).

      In ancient times, Chi Hsi was a festival of women's activities: A day before the 7th day of the month, women purified themselves by observing abstinent rules and bathing, and preparing sacrifices. On the 7th day's evening, women burned incense at the courtyard to worship these two stars. Unmarried girls asked the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid to match them with suitable mates; married women asked to be blessed by giving birth to sons; and middle-aged women sought serenity in the household. Afterwards, the women participated in a contest to see who could be the first to thread a seven-eyed needle, thus replicating the skills of the Weaving Maid. At a time when most women practiced needlework, this contest was both a practical exercise and an entertaining activity.

      The women's activities associated with Chi Hsi have disappeared in modern times, however, the holiday has gradually evolved into "Chinese Lovers Day," on which couples exchange cards and gifts, thus giving a new meaning to this tradition.