Western holidays are becoming more and more popular in China with each passing year. In October, English schools, restaurants, and bars in big cities throw Halloween parties. Come December, “Jingle Bells” can be heard around every corner, and you may even see hundreds of Santas parading around Beijing. Even though China has its own holiday for lovers (the Qixi Festival), you’re more likely to see young Chinese couples out on a romantic date on February 14th. Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is just as popular, cheesy, and hated in China as it is in the US. Guys all over the country are duped into buying teddy bears, picking up flowers, and booking a nice candlelit dinner. While the happy couples enjoy their night out, lonely singles sit at home – most likely eating a bowl of instant noodles and/or playing computer games – hating those who have already found love. Whether you love it or hate it, you’ll be ready to talk about Valentine’s Day in Chinese after studying these 25 words and phrases related to the Hallmark holiday and love in general:

Candlelit dinner in Hou Hai – Beijing romance.

For some further studying and a bit of fun, check out these YouTube videos while you’re at it:

Learn how to say “I love you” in Chinese with this video.

A great episode of “Sexy Beijing” where Su Fei spends Valentine’s Day in the capital.

Learn about the traditional Chinese Qi Xi Festival in this video.