Libraries across Jiangsu have organized various activities to celebrate the Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, which falls on October 23.

At a library in Yandu District of Yancheng City, local folklorist Wang Dengzuo discussed the history and customs of the traditional festival. Established as early as the Warring States period, the festival gained popularity during the Wei and Jin dynasties (220-420), especially among the literati, and was officially designated as a folk festival in the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

Traditionally, people in Yancheng observed the 9th day of the 9th lunar month by climbing the city gate tower, visiting temples, appreciating chrysanthemums, drinking chrysanthemum liquor, and wearing the zhuyu plant (Cornus officinalis). To pray for good luck, Yancheng’s customs also included enjoying special cakes.

In Yangzhou, a library hosetd a calligraphy and painting exhibition for the elderly, featuring more than 300 works that spanned diverse styles and subjects.

Nanjing’s library provided three free computer training sessions for the elderly, covering skills like typing and Internet usage.

Many libraries in Jiangsu also arranged parent-child activities. In Yancheng, 25 families participated in a workshop to recite classic poems and make crafts related to the festival. The Nanjing library, a class for children aged 5-9 focused on Guoxue, the study of traditional Chinese culture, especially Confucianism. They also watched performances and crafted sachets using zhuyu plant.

Wang Zixin, a third-grader at the Primary School Attached to Nanjing Normal University, said she will give her hand-made sachet to her grandmother, who takes care of her daily.