From Chocolates to Roses: Discover the Global Perspectives on Valentine’s Day Traditions

Valentine’s Day approaches swiftly! Observed as the day of love in most parts of the world, February 14th marks a celebration where people exchange tokens of affection, a tradition that has significantly contributed to the commercialization of this holiday.

The customs surrounding Valentine’s Day and the preceding week vary across different countries, each adding its unique touch to the festivities.

Let’s explore some of the distinct Valentine’s Day traditions from around the globe.

United States

In the United States, Valentine’s Day is a widely celebrated occasion for expressing love and affection to romantic partners, friends, and family members. The day is marked by the exchange of Valentine’s Day cards, with greeting card companies offering a variety of options ranging from sentimental to humorous messages. Alongside cards, gifts such as flowers, chocolates, and jewelry are popular tokens of affection. Many couples celebrate by enjoying a romantic dinner either at home or at a restaurant, often taking advantage of special menus offered for the occasion. Romantic gestures, such as surprise outings or love letters, are also common. Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is about spending quality time together, whether through shared activities, intimate moments, or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Finland

In Finland, Valentine’s Day is known as “Ystävänpäivä,” which translates to “Friend’s Day.” Unlike in many other countries, Valentine’s Day in Finland is not solely focused on romantic love but also celebrates friendship and appreciation for all loved ones. Common customs and traditions include exchanging cards and gifts with friends, family members, and romantic partners alike. People often send cards and small tokens of appreciation to show their affection for those they care about. While romantic gestures are still observed, the emphasis on friendship sets Valentine’s Day in Finland apart, making it a day for celebrating all forms of love and companionship.

Japan

In Japan, Valentine’s Day takes on a unique form where women primarily give gifts, usually chocolates, to men including romantic partners, colleagues, and male friends. There are two main types of chocolates exchanged: “Honmei-choco,” expressing true feelings and often given to romantic interests, and “Giri-choco,” given out of obligation or courtesy to friends and colleagues. Men reciprocate on March 14th, known as “White Day,” by giving gifts to the women who gave them chocolates. Recently, there’s been a rise in “friendship chocolates” exchanged among female friends on Valentine’s Day to celebrate companionship. Overall, Valentine’s Day in Japan is a significant occasion for expressing affection and appreciation through the exchange of chocolates and gifts.

India

In India, Valentine’s Day is enthusiastically celebrated, particularly among the younger generation, despite not being a traditional Indian festival. It has gained popularity in urban areas, where common customs include exchanging gifts like flowers, chocolates, cards, and jewelry. Couples often enjoy romantic outings such as dinners, movies, or picnics, while expressing love through gestures, love letters, or social media posts. However, in some conservative areas, protests against Valentine’s Day have arisen, viewing it as a Western influence conflicting with traditional Indian values. Overall, Valentine’s Day in India is embraced as a time for love and romance, providing couples with various avenues to express their affection.

South Korea

In South Korea, Valentine’s Day is celebrated uniquely, with women primarily giving gifts, typically chocolates, to men they are interested in, including romantic partners, colleagues, and male friends. There are two main types of chocolates given: Giri-choco, an “obligation” chocolate given out of courtesy, and Honmei-choco, expressing true feelings. Men reciprocated on March 14th, known as “White Day,” by giving gifts to women who gave them chocolates. Additionally, April 14th, known as “Black Day,” is for those who didn’t receive gifts, gathering to eat black-colored foods and commiserate. Overall, Valentine’s Day in South Korea highlights both romantic gestures and friendships through the exchange of chocolates and gifts.

Spain

In Spain, Valentine’s Day, known as “Día de San Valentín” or “Día de los Enamorados,” is celebrated similarly to other Western countries but with unique customs. Couples exchange gifts like flowers, chocolates, and cards to express their love. A distinctive tradition is the “Dia de la Amistad” or “Friendship Day” on July 30th, where friends exchange gifts and spend time together. In regions like Catalonia, “Dia dels Enamorats” or “Dia de Sant Jordi” on April 23rd is celebrated, focusing on couples exchanging gifts, especially books and roses. Overall, Valentine’s Day in Spain is about expressing love for both romantic partners and friends, with various customs reinforcing these bonds throughout the year.