Valentine’s Day, known as the day of love, is celebrated worldwide. People spend quality time with their partners, marking the occasion in various ways. February 14th has become a global phenomenon, celebrated through diverse cultures and unique traditions. Common practices include giving gifts, going on dates, enjoying romantic dinners, and making cards. However, each country has its distinctive way of celebrating this special day, shaped by its specific rituals, romantic legends, and commercial influences.

The origin of this day can be traced back to early modern England, where it was celebrated with the exchange of Valentine’s cards and confectionery. Although this tradition has evolved into various modern celebrations, let’s look at how different countries honor this special day.

Asian Countries

The Asian countries have preserved the essence of the day by sharing candies and chocolates with romantic partners, as well as exchanging gifts and cards. However, these countries have added their unique twist to the celebration.

Japan
In the land of Anime, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in two parts. On February 14th, women make a special effort to show their affection by presenting gifts and sweets to their partners. Exactly one month later, on March 14th, known as White Day, men return the gesture by treating their partners with similar romantic gestures. 

South Korea
The Valentine tradition in South Korea is similar to that in Japan but takes place in three parts. On April 14th, which is known as the Black Day singles are celebrated. On this day, they eat jjajangmyeon to enjoy their singlehood. This is how South Korea celebrates Valentines Day: it includes Valentines Day, White Day, and Black Day.

Philippines
Valentine’s Day in the Philippines is known as “I Do” Day. It is a day when mass weddings take place, organized by the government, allowing hundreds of couples to say “I do” together, making the day even more romantic.

Taiwan
Taiwan makes Valentine’s Day more beautiful as the day is celebrated by exchanging flowers. If a person receives a bouquet with exactly 108 roses, it is considered a proposal.

European Countries

Valentine’s Day in Nordic European countries is celebrated beyond the boundaries of romantic relationships. The day is celebrated for family and friends, sharing small tokens of love, gifts, and candies.

In Finland, February 14th is celebrated as ‘Ystvnpiv,’ which translates to Friendship Day. In Denmark and Norway, people also observe this day by exchanging “lover’s cards,” which can be either sweet or humorous. Some individuals send anonymous letters known as ‘gaekkebrev.’ These letters feature paper cut-outs and poems, signed only with dots. If the recipient correctly guesses who sent the letter, they win an Easter egg. Germany uniquely marks the occasion, with couples exchanging gifts themed around pigs, which represent love and desire. They also share ginger cookies, chocolates, and flowers.

South Africa

In honor of Lupercalia, a Roman festival, Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 15th. On this day, women confess their love to their crushes by pinning their crush’s names on their sleeves.