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Today, Singaporean heritage consultant Lynn Wong is leading the charge to revive the historical Qixi Festival, infusing it with both traditional and modern elements to engage contemporary audiences.
The Qixi Festival, known as the “Double Seventh Festival,” has roots that stretch back to the Han Dynasty. This ancient celebration was brought to Singapore by Chinese immigrant women in the 19th century and once rivalled Chinese New Year in its grandeur. However, the festival’s prominence faded in the 1970s.
As the Qixi Fest returns for its second edition from 3 to 11 August 2024, Lynn shares her insights and journey in an exclusive interview.
The origins and historical significance of Qixi Festival
“The Qixi Festival, also known as the ‘Double Seventh Festival,’ dates back to the Han Dynasty,” Lynn begins, highlighting the festival’s ancient origins. In Singapore, the festival was a significant cultural celebration brought over by Chinese immigrant women in the 19th century. “It provided a platform for women to showcase their skills in needlework and other crafts, fostering a sense of community and cultural continuity,” she explains. However, societal changes in the 1970s led to its decline.
Inspiration and journey of revival
Lynn’s journey to revive the Qixi Festival began with a casual conversation in 2017. “How can a festival even grander than Chinese New Year disappear?” This question, posed by a senior clan association member, sparked her curiosity. She embarked on extensive research supported by the National Heritage Board, conducting interviews with over 50 community stakeholders. Her efforts culminated in the publication of her book ‘Reviving Qixi’ in 2022. “This journey has been deeply rewarding, uncovering rich traditions and stories that highlight the festival’s significance and bringing them back to life through the Qixi Fest,” Lynn Wong shares.
The festival’s evolution from its beginnings in the Han Dynasty is noteworthy. “The Qixi Festival initially focused on women’s needlework and making wishes upon the stars,” Lynn notes. Over time, customs expanded to include various activities that highlighted skillfulness and creativity. “Today, we blend traditional customs with modern activities like intellectual games, storytelling, pastry making, and songwriting, preserving the essence of craftsmanship and cultural celebration.”
Showcasing diverse traditions is a key focus for Lynn Wong
This year’s Qixi Fest promises to be a vibrant celebration of diverse cultural practices. “As early as the Han Dynasty, the Chinese have been wishing upon the Cowherd (Altair) and the Weaver Fairy (Vega) stars,” Lynn says. She elaborates on various customs from different Chinese dialect communities that will be showcased. For instance, the Fujian province’s “forming ties” custom involves frying beans to foster friendships among children. The Teochews celebrate with the “leaving the flower garden” ceremony, while the Cantonese create intricate displays using small food items. The Hakka people eat medicinal dumplings made of herbs for good health.
“All of this has culminated in our modernised version of Qiao Guo, which we’ve made into a DIY kit for anyone to make at home,” Lynn explains. The kit includes various fillings representing different dialect groups, allowing participants to connect with and celebrate rich traditions in a meaningful and hands-on way.
Key highlights of Qixi Fest 2024
Attendees of this year’s Qixi Fest can look forward to an array of exciting activities and workshops. “Key highlights include the Qixi Fest Street Party at Keong Saik, featuring poetry workshops by Cultural Medallion recipients, the Queen’s Gambit Spectacular with an 8-year-old chess prodigy, and various cultural performances,” Lynn highlights.
Interactive workshops, such as lion dance, traditional martial arts, Chinese calligraphy, and opera, offer immersive experiences.
Participants can also engage in the immersive game “Tracing Her(Story) of the Samsui Women” and enjoy activities at the Qixi Fest Village in Kreta Ayer Square. “There are also talks by esteemed speakers who lived in Chinatown when Qixi Festival was still widely celebrated!” Lynn Wong adds.
How Lynn Wong is preserving and promoting heritage
Lynn Wong emphasises the festival’s role in preserving and promoting Chinese heritage and craftsmanship in Singapore. “Reviving traditional crafts and customs provides a platform for artisans to showcase their skills and engages the community in cultural activities, fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage,” she explains. The festival also strengthens partnerships between clans and encourages new collaborations. “By working closely with the community in a ground-up approach, the festival not only celebrates our rich cultural history but also hopefully will build a united and vibrant cultural future for Singapore.”
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has played a crucial role in supporting the festival. “The STB’s kickstarter fund transformed what was initially a book into a real-life event,” Lynn acknowledges. This financial backing has enabled the festival to secure resources, collaborate with stakeholders, and reach a wider audience. Ms Lim Shoo Ling, STB’s Director of Arts and Cultural Precincts, shares, “Events like the Qixi Fest celebrate our distinctive cultural heritage, catering to the strong interest of both visitors and locals who want to experience Singapore’s rich traditions and customs.”
As a heritage consultant, Lynn Wong is passionate about preserving disappearing foods, festivals, and traditions in Singapore. “One of them is preserving the disappearing heritage foods from smaller cultural groups,” she says, noting the importance of collective efforts and support to sustain these cultural treasures. Lynn’s dedication to reviving the Qixi Festival exemplifies her commitment to ensuring that Singapore’s rich cultural heritage continues to thrive for future generations.
Join the Qixi Fest from 3 to 11 August 2024 and be part of this vibrant cultural celebration.
[…] you’re passionate about art, and culture, or simply looking to enjoy a vibrant community event, the festival offers something for everyone. […]