Valentine's Day: 5 Traditions Around The World

By: I. Krakowiak

February 14th, Valentine’s day, is celebrated globally. Although this special day signifies chocolates, heartfelt notes, and intimate meals in the United States, different countries around the world have different ways of honoring St. Valentine.  


Japan:  
 In Japan, Valentine’s Day is unique. Instead of what we see commonly in other parts of the world, it is women who take the initiative. On this day, they assume the role of gift-givers, giving their partner a token of their affection. The favorite offering in Japan on this day is “honmei-choco”, a homemade chocolate.  

Not only until March 14th, known as White Day, does the partner return the gesture with an array of white-themed gifts, like white chocolate for example, to symbolize their affection and gratitude. 
 

UK:  

Valentine’s day in the UK is a vibrant tradition that dates back to the customs of the Victorian era! This celebration means the exchange of anonymous valentines notes, due to the belief Victorians had that signing one’s name to a card brought ill fortune, preserving the mystery of secret admirers. 
 Another famous tradition in the UK is the gesture of presenting roses to partners, which is now a famous global action to show love. This flower carries rich symbolism, as the rose is associated to Venus, the esteemed goddess of love. 
 

Brazil: 

In Brazil, Valentine’s day is only celebrated in June 12th for two reasons:  

1. To honor St. Anthony, a Catholic saint associated with matchmaking and marriage 
   

1. The actual day that is Valentines day is in the middle of Carnaval! 
   

Actually, Valentines day in Brazil is called “Dia dos namorados”. If you have a partner in Dia dos namorados, you can expect basic traditions like an exchange of tokens and a nice meal. In some parts of Brazil, the streets become filled with romantic decorations for parades. Music, food, and folk dancing (samba) are popular.  

Another interesting thing is that while being single in Valentine’s day can be very depressing in most countries, not in Brazil. If you are single in Dia dos namorados, Many bars and restaurants hold singles events with games, drinks, music for you to have a blast and meet up with friends. Maybe even find a significant other there. 
  
Slovenia: 

In Slovenia, 14th of February holds special significance as a prime day for tending the fields, resonating with the agricultural rhythms of the land. This is because St. Valentine, revered as one of the patron saints of spring, symbolizes renewal and growth, therefore inspiring this tradition. 

Slovenians only reserve their celebration for romance on March 12th, embracing the charm of St. Gregory’s Day. Then, they joyously commemorate love and companionship, practicing cultural traditions and heartfelt sentiments into their festivities. 
 
  
Wales:  

Instead of commemorating love on February 14, citizens of Wales honor St. Dwynwen's Day on January 25. St. Dwynwen holds a revered place as the Welsh patron saint of lovers, and in a charming tradition, men bestow upon women intricately hand-carved wooden spoons.  ​

This endearing custom finds its roots in the romantic lore of Welsh sailors who, while navigating the seas, crafted intricate designs onto wooden spoons to present to their beloveds upon returning home.