Valentine’s Day, observed each year on February 14, is a time to express affection for partners, friends, and family. Though it is widely associated with chocolates, flowers, and greeting cards, the holiday’s origins trace back to ancient times. Over the centuries, it developed into an international celebration of love, with different cultures adding their own customs and interpretations.
Origins of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is named after St. Valentine, a figure surrounded by legend. One popular story describes him as a Roman priest who performed secret marriages after Emperor Claudius II banned them, believing unmarried men made better soldiers. According to tradition, Valentine was imprisoned for defying the order and later sent a note signed From your Valentine, a phrase that remains connected to the holiday.
In the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I designated February 14 as St. Valentine’s Day. Over time, the observance gradually shifted from a religious commemoration to a celebration of romantic love.
By the 14th and 15th centuries, people in England and France were exchanging written messages and small tokens of affection. The tradition later spread to the United States, where it developed into the modern custom of sharing cards, flowers, and gifts.
💘 Facts About Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular holidays in the U.S., known for large-scale gift exchanges and some unexpected trends.
Millions of Cards Exchanged
Valentine’s Day is the second-largest card-sending holiday in the United States, after Christmas. Americans exchange approximately 145 million Valentine’s cards each year.
Flowers in High Demand
Red roses are the most popular Valentine’s flower. Around 250 million roses are produced specifically for the holiday each year, with California supplying a large share.
Chocolate Sales Surge
Americans purchase more than 58 million pounds of chocolate around Valentine’s Day. Heart-shaped boxes, first introduced by Richard Cadbury in the late 1800s, remain a seasonal favorite.
Pets Join the Celebration
Over 27 million Americans buy Valentine’s gifts for their pets, reflecting a broader trend of including animals in holiday traditions.
Cupid as a Symbol
Cupid originates from Roman mythology as the god of love. His image became closely associated with Valentine’s Day in the 19th century, especially through greeting cards.
A Popular Proposal Day
Valentine’s Day ranks among the most common days for engagements. Some surveys suggest that around 10% of annual proposals take place on February 14.
Sweetheart Candy Origins
Conversation candies known as Sweethearts began in the 1860s in the United States. Originally called “motto hearts,” they featured short printed messages that continue to be sold today.
How People Celebrate Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day offers endless possibilities to show love and appreciation. Here are a few ways to make the day special:
- Exchange Thoughtful Gifts: Chocolates and flowers remain popular choices, but personalized or handmade items often feel more special.
- Plan an Experience Together: Shared activities often create lasting memories. A dinner reservation, a walk through a favorite neighborhood, or even a weekend getaway can make the day feel more meaningful than a material gift.
- Include Friends and Family: The day is not limited to romantic relationships. Calling a relative, sending a card to a friend, or dropping off a small treat broadens the meaning of the holiday.
- Support Local Businesses: Many small businesses offer unique Valentine’s-themed products. Supporting local bakeries, florists, or artisans can make your gifts stand out while helping your community.
💘 Valentine’s Day Upcoming Dates
Valentine’s Day is observed every year on February 14 . The date remains the same each year, while the weekday changes.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | February 14 | Saturday |
| 2027 | February 14 | Sunday |
| 2028 | February 14 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 14 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 14 | Thursday |
