11.11: From China’s campus joke to Beirut’s shopping frenzy

Move over, Valentine’s Day. There’s a new date in town, and it’s all about treating yourself. On 11.11, singles everywhere, from Shanghai to Beirut, celebrate being fabulously independent. While Valentine’s is about couples, 11.11 is about celebrating you, your freedom, and maybe splurging on something you’ve been eyeing for months. Think of it as the anti-Valentine’s: no roses, no chocolates for someone else, just self-love, fun, and a little retail therapy.

From dorm rooms to global fame

But 11.11 wasn’t born from shopping sprees or Instagram-worthy gift guides, it started as a cheeky campus joke in 1993 at Nanjing University. Single male students decided to turn their singledom into a reason to celebrate. They picked 11.11 because the four “1”s visually represented “bare sticks,” a playful nod to being single. What began as a lighthearted student tradition quickly caught on across China, eventually transforming into a global phenomenon of self-indulgence and celebration.

Beirut joins the party: Self-love goes local

Today, 11.11 is no longer just for singles, it’s a day to treat yourself, embrace your independence, and maybe splurge a little. And Beirut is starting to join the party. While the city doesn’t have official Singles’ Day traditions yet, the trend is slowly catching on among its young, trend-savvy population. Local brands and e-commerce shops are hopping on the hype, offering deals that go beyond just price cuts. From fashion and lifestyle items to books, gadgets, and personal treats, 11.11 promotions in Beirut are all about celebrating you, not someone else.

Rami, 22, a university student, offers a different perspective: “I get the hype, but for me, 11.11 feels kind of meaningless. Valentine’s Day already celebrates love, and this just feels like a reason to buy stuff. I’d rather spend time with friends or family than get caught up in online sales.” His view highlights that while shopping and self-indulgence appeal to many, the day still divides opinion among Beirut’s youth.

More than shopping: Cafés, brunches, and fun

It’s not just online shopping either. Cafés, restaurants, and lifestyle spots are experimenting with “Singles’ Specials”, solo brunches, personalized menus, or fun social events designed to let people celebrate themselves in style. Social media influencers are also getting in on the trend, framing 11.11 as a day of self-love and empowerment, showcasing everything from solo adventures and personal accomplishments to small indulgences that make everyday life a little brighter. The focus isn’t on discounts alone, it’s about creating moments of joy, personal celebration, and a little indulgence.

Maya, 24, shares how she enjoys this aspect: “I usually set aside a little budget to buy something I’ve been wanting for months, some makeup, skincare or even just a planner. But I also like going to cafés and seeing people enjoying the day in their own way. It’s fun, and it feels like a small personal celebration in the middle of a busy city.”

Why 11.11 works in Beirut

What makes 11.11 work in Beirut is its inclusivity and playfulness. You don’t need to be single to enjoy it. Unlike Valentine’s Day, it’s not about someone else, it’s about you, your independence, and celebrating life on your terms. For a city that thrives on culture, creativity, and personal expression, 11.11 offers the perfect excuse to treat yourself, have fun, and maybe even start a new little tradition. For Lara, 19: “Even my friends who are in relationships join in, because everyone deserves a little self-care and excitement. In Beirut, the city itself feels lively that day, cafés, stores, and social media all get creative, which makes the celebration feel real.”

So this November 11, skip the roses, forget the chocolates for someone else, and celebrate yourself. Because in Beirut, the anti-Valentine’s Day is here, and it’s fabulous.