Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on 14 February, is widely recognised as a day of love and affection.
This special occasion offers a moment to express heartfelt feelings to loved ones through various forms of appreciation such as gifts, cards, and romantic gestures.
What are the origins of Valentine’s Day?
The origins of Valentine’s Day trace back to ancient times, and its evolution over the centuries has led to a day that is celebrated by millions around the world.
The earliest associations of Valentine’s Day date back to the Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in mid-February.
Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, along with the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. During this period, there was a custom where men would draw the names of women from a jar, pairing them for the duration of the festival, or longer if the match was right.
As Christianity spread through Europe, pagan holidays were often Christianised.
Pope Gelasius I, in the fifth century, replaced Lupercalia with St Valentine’s Day. It then began to be celebrated as a day of romance from about the 14th century.
The historical significance of Valentine’s Day
Regarding its historical significance, Valentine’s Day has evolved significantly.
The day gets its name from Saint Valentine, a mysterious figure with several legends surrounding him. One popular belief is that he was a priest from Rome in the third century AD who defied Emperor Claudius II.
The emperor had outlawed marriage for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. Valentine continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret, for which he was executed.
Another story suggests that while in prison, Valentine healed the jailer’s blind daughter, and before his execution, he sent her a letter signed “Your Valentine,” an expression still in use today.
Through the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day became associated with the tradition of courtly love, a concept of expressing love and admiration, usually in secret.
By the 18th century in England, it had evolved into an occasion where couples expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”).
In the 19th century, the practice of sending handwritten notes began to give way to mass-produced greeting cards.
How to celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2024
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in various ways around the globe. While the tradition of giving gifts and sending cards remains popular, there are many ways to celebrate the day.
Couples might go out for a romantic dinner, exchange gifts such as jewellery or flowers, or simply spend quality time together.
Singles celebrate the day as well, treating themselves to self-care activities, gathering with friends, or expressing love and gratitude for the people in their lives.
For those looking to celebrate, here are some suggestions:
- Personalised Gifts: Create or select personalised gifts that speak to the interests and tastes of your loved one.
- Experience Gifts: Plan a special outing or activity, like a spa day, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway.
- Handwritten Letters: Revive the tradition of handwritten love notes or valentines to express your feelings in a more personal and intimate way.
- Home Celebration: Prepare a special meal at home, decorate with a theme, or have a movie night featuring romantic films.
- Community Service: Celebrate by giving back to the community or spending the day volunteering for a cause both of you care about.
