"On this Qixi Festival, gaze at the azure sky, where the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl cross the bridge of the Milky Way." Today (August 19th) is the Qixi Festival. Have you made your date plans yet? Will you be admiring the Milky Way hand in hand, or strolling in the park and watching a performance? Whatever your choice, the weather is crucial. China Weather Network has released the 2026 National Qixi Weather Map to help you understand the weather and make your date a breeze.

Qixi Festival, the ancient Chinese Valentine's Day, remains a day for countless couples to express their love and enjoy romance. According to the national Qixi weather map released by China Weather Network, today, the Northwest and Inner Mongolia will enjoy sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, making it a perfect day for dates. Rain is expected in the Northeast, Southwest, and South China, so remember to bring rain gear. Meanwhile, the Jiangnan region and Xinjiang will experience sweltering heat; consider finding a cool place to celebrate.

Two sunny days in harmony! The weather in Northwest China and other regions is perfect for enjoying the starry sky and expressing deep affection.

"The night sky is cool as water, I lie watching the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl stars." This poetic sentiment from a thousand years ago still resonates today. Tonight, clear skies with few clouds are expected in northern Xinjiang, most of Gansu, Ningxia, Qinghai, and central Inner Mongolia, perfect for stargazing. In the vast northwest wilderness or grasslands, the glittering Milky Way will be a breathtaking sight, with the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl gazing at each other across the Milky Way – a scene of unparalleled romance. However, these areas experience significant temperature differences between day and night, with a noticeable drop in temperature after nightfall. Remember to bring a light jacket when stargazing outdoors to avoid the chilly winds spoiling your enjoyment of the celestial realm.

The heat is scorching in Jiangnan and other areas, so people are seeking tranquil spots to cool off and enjoy the peace and quiet.

This Qixi Festival, the hottest places will undoubtedly be the central and southern parts of Jiangnan, the central and northern parts of South China, and Turpan in Xinjiang, with maximum temperatures reaching above 35℃, and exceeding 37℃ in some areas. This is especially true in Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Fujian, and the central and northern parts of Guangdong, where high relative humidity will make it feel extremely muggy. Those in these areas can seek respite from the heat by visiting riverbanks, valleys, or forest parks; or opt for indoor venues like museums or shopping malls to enjoy the air conditioning. If choosing outdoor activities, remember to take precautions against sunburn and heatstroke, and stay hydrated.

"Rain" is with you! In South China and other regions, rain brings warmth and companionship to indoor dates.

Rainfall is expected in Southwest, South, North, and Northeast China today, with some areas in northeastern Heilongjiang, southwestern Yunnan, southern Guangxi, Hainan Island, and Taiwan experiencing heavier rainfall. If you need to go out, please bring rain gear, pay attention to the latest local weather warnings, and avoid periods of heavy rainfall. For couples in these areas, consider scheduling dates at a movie theater, exhibition hall, craft workshop, or teahouse. Enjoy a popular film, an art exhibition, or simply listen to the rain while sipping tea by the window – all unique and charming experiences. Once the rain subsides, you can also share an umbrella and stroll through the streets, experiencing a romantic moment in the rain.

Whether it's sunny or rainy, love remains constant. China Weather Network wishes you a romantic Qixi Festival in 2026, rain or shine. (Source: China Weather Network)