Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th, is known as a day of love and romance across the globe. While many associate it with roses, chocolates, and candlelit dinners, different cultures have unique traditions that make the day special in their own way. Here’s a look at some of the most fascinating Valentine’s Day customs from around the world.
Japan
In Japan, Valentine’s Day is all about women expressing their love. Traditionally, women give chocolates to men—either as a romantic gesture (called “honmei-choco”) or as a friendly token (“giri-choco”). A month later, on March 14th, known as White Day, men reciprocate with gifts like white chocolate, jewelry, or accessories.
South Korea
South Korea takes Valentine’s traditions to the next level with a series of love-related celebrations. On February 14th, women give chocolates to men, and on White Day (March 14th), men return the favor. But there’s also Black Day (April 14th), when singles gather to eat black bean noodles (“jajangmyeon”) and commiserate about their single status.
France
As the country of love, France has a long history of romantic traditions. One of the oldest customs, “Loterie d’amour” (lottery of love), involved single men and women pairing up randomly. The tradition was eventually banned due to its chaotic nature. Today, Valentine’s Day in France is a private, intimate affair, with couples exchanging gifts, love letters, and enjoying romantic dinners.
Brazil
In Brazil, Valentine’s Day is not celebrated in February, as it coincides with the famous Carnival. Instead, Brazilians celebrate “Dia dos Namorados” on June 12th, the eve of Saint Anthony’s Day, known as the patron saint of marriage. Couples exchange gifts, and single people perform love rituals to find a soulmate.
Denmark
In Denmark, Valentine’s Day is marked with the exchange of “gaekkebrev,” playful anonymous love notes featuring funny poems. If the recipient guesses the sender’s identity correctly, they win an Easter egg later in the year. Danes also gift pressed snowdrop flowers instead of roses.
Philippines
One of the most extraordinary Valentine’s Day traditions happens in the Philippines, where thousands of couples participate in mass weddings organized by the government. These large ceremonies provide an opportunity for couples to get married or renew their vows, making February 14th an especially meaningful day.
South Africa
Inspired by the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia, South Africans take Valentine’s Day quite literally by pinning the name of their crush to their sleeve. This public declaration of affection allows secret admirers to make their feelings known.
Italy
In Italy, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love with sweet traditions such as gifting “Baci Perugina,” hazelnut chocolates wrapped in romantic messages. In some cities, couples write their names on padlocks and attach them to bridges before throwing the key into the water, symbolizing eternal love.
Wales
Instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day on February 14th, the Welsh honor love on January 25th, known as “Dydd Santes Dwynwen.” A key part of the celebration is the exchange of hand-carved love spoons, an intricate and symbolic gift dating back to the 17th century.
[Contributed By Anushka Gaikwad]