Valentine’s Day is a holiday that has been delighting romantics, frustrating cynics, and confusing just about everyone else for centuries. Some embrace it as a time to express undying affection, while others view it as an over-commercialized spectacle designed to sell heart-shaped everything. Regardless of where you stand, there’s no denying that February 14th brings a whirlwind of red roses, candy hearts, and candlelit dinners. But beneath the chocolates and Hallmark cards, Valentine’s Day has some rather unusual traditions that make it more than just a day for lovers. Let’s unwrap some of the quirkiest, funniest, and most unexpected elements of this beloved holiday.
The Origins: A Mysterious Love Story (Or Several)
One of the strangest things about Valentine’s Day is that no one is entirely sure which Saint Valentine it’s actually named after. There are multiple Valentines in history who could have inspired the holiday, including a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying couples, a bishop in Italy who met a tragic end, and yet another Valentine who was martyred for his faith. Somehow, their stories all merged into a single legend, creating the foundation for the holiday we celebrate today. In other words, Valentine’s Day was built on historical guesswork, which feels oddly appropriate given how many people spend the day guessing what their significant other wants as a gift.
Love Letters to the Legally Departed
If you think sending Valentine’s cards is just for schoolchildren and hopeless romantics, think again. Every year, thousands of love letters are sent to the final resting place of one of history’s most famous romantics—Juliet Capulet. In Verona, Italy, the fictional heroine of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet receives stacks of heartfelt notes from people around the world seeking love advice. Volunteers, known as Juliet’s Secretaries, even take the time to respond to some of these letters. It’s a beautiful gesture, albeit a bit unusual, given that Juliet’s relationship didn’t exactly have the happiest ending. Still, if writing to a fictional character about your love life helps, who are we to judge?
When Spaghetti is More Romantic Than Flowers
While many countries celebrate Valentine’s Day with chocolates and flowers, some have taken a different approach. In South Korea, February 14th is when women give gifts to men, usually in the form of chocolates. But don’t worry, men get their turn on March 14th—also known as White Day—when they’re expected to reciprocate with gifts of their own. And for those who didn’t receive anything on either day? April 14th, known as Black Day, is reserved for singles to commiserate over bowls of jajangmyeon, a delicious black bean noodle dish. Essentially, South Korea has turned Valentine’s Day into a three-month-long event, making sure no one is left out, even if their only date is with a plate of noodles.
The Valentine’s Day Massacre… of Wallets
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance—it’s also big business. In the United States alone, people spend billions of dollars on gifts, dining, and experiences to impress their partners. But what’s truly shocking is how specific some of the spending trends are. Studies show that pet owners collectively spend millions on Valentine’s Day gifts for their furry companions. That’s right—while some people struggle to get a date, Fluffy the cat is being spoiled with a heart-shaped chew toy and gourmet treats. Meanwhile, many restaurants roll out extravagant “Valentine’s Specials,” proving that while love may be priceless, a prix-fixe dinner with a side of ambiance is not.
Oddly Specific Valentine’s Traditions Around the World
Valentine’s Day might be universally recognized, but different countries have put their own spin on it. In Denmark, instead of traditional roses, Men and women alike give away “snowdrops,” these charming flowers, either fresh or pressed, to both love interests and friends. But the real fun begins with gaekkebrev, which are funny, anonymous love poems that men send to women. If the recipient can correctly guess who sent it, she wins an Easter egg later in the year. (A delayed reward system that sounds charming in theory but would be difficult to explain in a modern dating app scenario.)
In Wales, Valentine’s Day takes a backseat to Dydd Santes Dwynwen, celebrated on January 25th in honor of Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. Instead of candy, people exchange intricate wooden love spoons, a tradition dating back centuries. The spoons were once carved with symbols representing love, luck, and commitment—essentially the precursor to modern emojis.
A Day for Love in All Forms
While Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic love, there’s been a growing movement to celebrate it in other ways. Many now embrace February 14th as a day to appreciate friendships, family, and self-love. The concept of “Galentine’s Day,” popularized by the TV show Parks and Recreation, has taken off as a way for women to celebrate their friendships, proving that love isn’t just about roses and chocolates—it’s also about brunch with your best friends. Meanwhile, others use the day as an opportunity to practice self-care, treating themselves to a nice meal, a spa day, or simply avoiding the whole affair altogether with a good movie and some takeout.
Love It or Hate It, Valentine’s Day is Here to Stay
Whether you’re someone who embraces the holiday with open arms or prefers to roll your eyes at its extravagance, Valentine’s Day isn’t going anywhere. It has evolved from its murky historical origins into a day filled with grand romantic gestures, thoughtful traditions, and even a touch of absurdity. And maybe that’s what makes it so special—its ability to be whatever you need it to be.
So, whether you’re penning a poetic gaekkebrev, indulging in South Korea’s Black Day noodles, or just making sure your pet feels loved, Valentine’s Day is a reminder that love comes in many forms. And if all else fails, at least there’s always half-priced chocolate on February 15th.
Now that’s a love story we can all get behind.
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