| Valentine's Day | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | United States and many other countries |
| Type | Cultural and commercial |
| Date | February 14 |
| Scheduling | Same day each year |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Celebrates | Love, romance, friendship, and affection |
Valentine’s Day is celebrated annually on February 14 in the United States. It is a day dedicated to expressing love and affection, often through the exchange of gifts, cards, and romantic gestures.
Origins
The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr. Though multiple historical figures share the name, the celebration likely blends traditions from:
- The Roman festival of Lupercalia
- Early Christian accounts of a priest who secretly married couples
- Medieval tales popularized by Geoffrey Chaucer
Modern Traditions
Valentine’s Day is celebrated with:
- Romantic dinners and dates
- Greeting cards (Valentines) exchanged between couples, friends, and classmates
- Gifts such as:
- Roses and flowers - Chocolates and candy - Jewelry or keepsakes
School and Social Celebrations
In schools, children often:
- Decorate mailboxes or paper bags
- Exchange cards and treats with classmates
- Participate in themed activities
Commercial Impact
- Valentine’s Day is one of the biggest retail holidays in the U.S.
- Americans spend over $20 billion annually
- Top purchases include:
- Candy - Flowers - Jewelry - Experiences (dining, travel)
Symbols
Common Valentine’s Day symbols include:
- Hearts
- Cupid with bow and arrow
- Red and pink color themes
- Love notes and poems
Fun Facts
- The first mass-produced Valentine’s cards appeared in the 1840s
- Approximately 145 million cards are exchanged in the U.S. each year
- February 14 is also one of the most popular days for marriage proposals