This year, Valentine’s Day lands on a Saturday, giving couples an ideal chance to dedicate time to romance, surprises, and thoughtful gestures.
Across the globe, February 14 is marked by the exchange of flowers, gifts, and love notes, all in honor of St Valentine.
The identity of St Valentine remains a mystery, with multiple legends surrounding him. According to the History Channel, the holiday combines elements of early Christian beliefs and ancient Roman customs.
One tale tells of a Roman priest named Valentine in the third century. Emperor Claudius II had banned marriages for young men, believing that unmarried men made better soldiers.
Seeing this as unjust, Valentine secretly performed weddings for lovers. When the emperor learned of his actions, Valentine was sentenced to death.
Another version suggests that Valentine of Terni, a bishop, was the true inspiration for the day, also executed for defying Claudius. Some accounts say Valentine was killed for helping Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where many suffered brutal treatment.
One story claims that while imprisoned, Valentine fell in love with a young girl—possibly his jailor’s daughter—and sent her a note signed, “From your Valentine,” a phrase that continues to be used today.
Regardless of which story is accurate, Valentine is remembered as a heroic and romantic figure.
The holiday itself may trace back to the Roman festival of Lupercalia, which celebrated fertility and the arrival of spring. The festival featured feasts, lotteries, and the pairing of men and women.
As Christianity expanded, pagan celebrations were discouraged, and by the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I ended the festival. Over time, the day became associated with St Valentine and evolved into a celebration of love.
Valentine’s Day celebrations vary widely, leaving room for personal expression. Couples may plan a special night out for a play, concert, or movie, remembering to secure tickets early. Dressing up and taking a photo together adds a lasting memory.
Many continue the tradition of sharing meals at restaurants, but preparing a meal at home can make the day more intimate. Couples can choose to spend time talking about life, the present, and the future, or create a playlist of favorite songs to dance together.
Recreating a memorable date or sharing thoughtful gifts also keeps the celebration meaningful.
Gifts and flowers remain central to Valentine’s Day, and care packages are another way to show affection. For a magical ending, couples may go stargazing in a quiet location away from city lights.
No matter the activity, the focus should be on enjoying the day together and celebrating love.
