Saint Valentine’s Day: A Celebration Rooted in History and Love

The February 14 tradition blends ancient Roman rituals, Christian influences, and modern commercial practices to honor love in its many forms.

The origins of Valentine’s Day trace back to the Roman festival of Lupercalia, a fertility celebration later adapted by the Christian Church to honor Saint Valentine.
Saint Valentine, believed to have been martyred in 270 AD, is associated with love through both legend and historical accounts, including secretly performing marriages against imperial orders.
The tradition of exchanging love notes, called 'valentines,' began in the Middle Ages and was popularized by poets like Charles d’Orléans and later by Shakespeare.
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide with diverse customs, from romantic gifts and dinners to cultural variations like Japan’s chocolate-giving traditions.
Recent trends, such as Galentine’s and Palentine’s Day, emphasize celebrating friendship and non-romantic love, reflecting evolving societal views on relationships.