My First Time Celebrating 520 Day — China’s Unofficial Valentine’s Day

I’ve always thought that Valentine’s Day was only celebrated every February 14th. Turns out, I was missing out on another day of love — May 20, or what many people call 520 Day, China’s unofficial Valentine's Day.




This year, I came across posts and hashtags celebrating “Happy 520” and was curious about it. So, I did a little digging, and to my surprise, I discovered a fascinating and heartwarming story behind the numbers.


What Is 520 Day?


In Chinese, numbers often have phonetic meanings. The number “520” (五二零, wǔ èr líng) sounds very close to “I love you” (我爱你, wǒ ài nǐ) in Mandarin. It became an online slang expression for love, especially popular among younger generations and couples in China.


Over time, May 20 (5/20) became a day when lovers exchange messages, confess their feelings, and celebrate romance — much like Valentine’s Day. Thanks to the power of the internet, this trend spread across Asia and even reached international fans like me who enjoy discovering cultural gems from around the world.


Fun Fact:

> Some couples even choose to get married on 520 because of the significance behind the numbers!

> I learned about 5/20 because of my favorite fandom—OhmNanon. The way fans celebrate this day, flooding timelines with hearts, photos, edits, and loving words, made me curious. And now, I find myself joining in, appreciating how fandoms can introduce you to new cultures, languages, and even heartfelt traditions like this.


Screenshot from their Weibo Account
Update: 5/20/25



Who and what is about OhmNanon?

The beloved Thai actor duo Ohm Pawat and Nanon Korapat, who gained fame for their unforgettable roles in Bad Buddy (2021), a BL series that touched the hearts of many. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen friendship have built a global fanbase that continues to grow. Fans around the world celebrate OhmNanon not only for their talent but also for how they represent genuine connection, mutual respect, and unwavering support—perfectly fitting for the spirit of 520, a day dedicated to love and appreciation.


My Personal Take on 520


As someone who loves stories, culture, and anything that promotes love and connection, discovering 520 Day felt like finding a hidden treasure. I may be late to the party, but this is a celebration I’m happy to join — whether it’s romantic love, self-love, or love for family and friends.




Today, I decided to celebrate 520 Day for the first time. I shared red and green hearts on my socials — red for passion, green for peace — and sent messages to people I care about. It felt good. Like Valentine’s Day without the pressure — just the pure joy of love in its many forms.

What inspired me? None other than OhmNanon — a pair of Thai actors I truly admire. Even if they’re not a real-life couple, their bond, their chemistry on-screen, and their genuine friendship off-screen remind me how powerful connection can be. They’ve shown so many of us what it means to support, uplift, and care for one another — and that kind of love is worth celebrating, too.


Let’s Make 520 Day a Thing


Even if we’re not in China or don’t speak Mandarin, love is a universal language. Celebrating 520 is a beautiful way to connect with others, share kindness, and embrace the little joys that bring us closer. So, here’s a virtual hug from me to you:




Happy 520! I love you in every language, in every way.


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Want to know more about the history of 520 Day? You can check out this article:

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/520\_day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/520_day)






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