One is the loneliest number on Singles' Day

November 11 is Singles' Day in China, so named because it features the numeral 1 four times. It was founded in the early 1990s by Chinese university students, but has grown in popularity in recent years due to the Internet. Singles across the country often scramble to find a partner before the date, much like the lead up to Valentine's Day. Businesses usually take advantage of the day by offering discounts and various promotions. What do you think of Singles' Day and how do you plan to celebrate the loneliest day of 2012? Jiang Jie hit the streets to find out.

Andrew Jackson, teacher, US

I've never heard of this day, probably because we don't have it in the US. Naming a date "Singles' Day" because the numerals supposedly resemble single people is a phenomenon unique to China. It's probably not worth celebrating it as a festival because if a large number of men cannot find a girlfriend or wife, it could cause some social problems.

Meng Chao, manager, China

I will hang out with my college friends to celebrate Singles' Day. It is really popular, even though not everyone who celebrates it is necessarily single. I think this is merely an opportunity for people to get together and have fun, like any other holiday or festival. Acknowledging one's single status isn't the true meaning of Singles' Day.

Lucas Smith, advertising designer, US　

It seems to me that this day offers guys a great opportunity to go out and have a drink for no reason. I will probably go shopping now that I know about the discounts. Although I'm not single, I will still do it. I'm going to buy something stupid for sure. Every time I receive something I've ordered online, I ask myself whether I will actually use it. In the end, I usually give it away as a gift.

Ren Hongda, computer programmer, China

I have a girlfriend, so why should I celebrate Singles' Day? Unfortunately, she has to work this Sunday, so I will be alone like all the other bachelors. I'm thinking about surprising my girlfriend during her lunch break at work. I personally don't see any point to Singles' Day. If you're single, you probably aren't in the mood to celebrate the fact you're lonely. If you're not single, it's not your day. I don't know why it exists.

Liu Yanran, student, China

I have nothing romantic planned for Singles' Day. For me, my studies take priority and I don't have time for much of a romantic life. As a senior student, I am concentrating on applying for graduate school in the US. Previously, I used to watch romance movies on Singles' Day. I think such holidays are for those with leisure time, not people like me.

Josh Brown, chef, Canada

I heard about Singles' Day recently through my Chinese friends, who are looking forward to buying many items online because they are half-priced. Sunday is my work day, so I can't arrange anything for Singles' Day. In fact, it will probably be a busy day at the restaurant I work at on Singles' Day.