[Video/Ningbo Evening News]

Young people from China and abroad gathered at a historic home in Ningbo's Zhenhai district on Aug 17 to celebrate Qixi, a traditional Chinese festival associated with love and relationships.

The evening offered a hands-on introduction to Chinese crafts, with more than 70 traditional techniques and handmade items on display, including embroidery, paper cutting, Chinese knotting, scented ornaments, and floral decorations.

International students joined local young people in making their own crafts, from shaping scented plaques to learning Chinese knotting techniques from local artisans. They also took part in a traditional Qixi needle-threading activity, inspired by an old custom in which women showcased their needlework skills and wished for greater dexterity.

The event also included a handmade gift exchange between Chinese and international participants, creating an informal opportunity to share traditions and connect with one another.

Held in a century-old residence, the event combined traditional crafts with a social setting designed to appeal to younger audiences. Organizers said the goal was to give young people from different cultural backgrounds an accessible way to experience traditional Chinese culture and local intangible cultural heritage.