Ever wondered how the rest of the world celebrates Valentine’s Day? It’s not just about chocolates and roses everywhere! Different countries have their unique twists and traditions when it comes to celebrating romance. In this post, we’re going on a little global tour to explore how various nations embrace it.
15 Valentine’s Traditions
USA
Here, Valentine’s Day is a big deal with cards, chocolates, and a big bouquet of roses. People express warm feelings not only to partners but also to friends and family. Schools often have card exchanges for kids, making it a sweet day for everyone!
Japan
In Japan, it also involves giving chocolates, but with a twist. Women give chocolates to men on February 14th, and men return the favor on White Day, March 14th. There’s even a specific term, “Giri-choco,” for obligation chocolates!
South Korea
Following Japan’s lead, South Korea celebrates the two romantic days. But there’s more — April 14th is “Black Day.” On it, singles celebrate … being single! They gather together to eat Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles)!
Brazil
Brazilians skip February 14th and celebrate “Dia dos Namorados” (Lovers’ Day) on June 12th. It’s filled with music, festivals, and, of course, romantic gestures.
Denmark
Danes celebrate it with a twist of humor. They send “joke letters.” These are funny poems or the like which people write on paper figures. If the recipient guesses the sender, they earn an Easter egg later in the year!
Wales
Instead of Valentine’s Day, the Welsh celebrate “Dydd Santes Dwynwen” (St. Dwynwen’s Day) on January 25th, honoring their patron saint of lovers. The traditional gift? A hand-carved wooden spoon.
Philippines
Mass wedding ceremonies are a common sight in the Philippines on Valentine’s Day. Many couples choose this day to tie the knot in a grand, communal way.
Italy
Italians, known for their romance, celebrate with gifts, dinners, and a spring festival. A popular tradition is for young, unmarried couples to wake up before dawn to spot their future spouse.
France
Once known for the “loterie d’amour” where single men and women gathered in houses facing each other and called out until they paired off. Although no longer practiced, France’s reputation as a city of love continues strong.
England
In England, children used to dress up and go singing holiday verses from door to door. While this tradition has faded, romantic dinners and themed events are still very popular.
South Africa
South Africans wear their hearts on their sleeves — literally. People pin the names of their love interests on their sleeves, a tradition derived from an ancient Roman festival.
China
The Qixi Festival, or the “Seventh Night Festival,” is China’s equivalent of Valentine’s Day, celebrated in August. It’s based on a romantic legend and involves offerings to the couple represented in the stars.
Argentina
Instead of one day, Argentinians celebrate a “Week of Sweetness” in July. It’s customary to exchange candies for kisses during this week.
Scotland
In Scotland, a popular tradition is for singles to attend Valentine’s Day balls where they draw names to determine their dance partners, often leading to romantic sparks!
Australia
Australians often go for grand gestures, like extravagant gifts or skywriting love messages. The tradition of giving Valentines grew popular after gold was discovered in Victoria, leading to a gold rush of wealth. This newfound prosperity made elaborate romantic gifts accessible and popular.
Final Words
And that’s our whirlwind tour of Valentine’s Day traditions around the globe! Whether you’re inspired to adopt a new tradition or just enjoyed learning about it, remember: at its core, it is all about celebrating romance. So, however, you choose to do it, spread some love this February 14th!
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