Valentine’s traditions from around the world

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

As we spend the day celebrating our loved ones, whether that’s with a partner, friend or even pet, we thought it would be nice something a little bit different.

We have put together this blog featuring some interesting Valentine's Day traditions from around the world.

Argentina

In Argentina, they don’t actually celebrate Valentine’s Day on the 14^th February but instead have “the week of sweetness” in July. During this time, they give out sweets, chocolates and other tasty treats to their partners and family members in return for a kiss on the cheek. It was originally part of a marketing campaign but has since become an annual tradition in the country.

France

Cool fact! It’s thought that the first ever Valentine’s cards were first sent in France in 1415, when the Duke of Orleans sent love letters to his wife from the prison. Romantic, right?

From the 12^th to 14^th February, France is a go-to destination for couples from all parts of the world. Residents display cards, roses and other heartfelt décor, along with local cafes, restaurants and other businesses getting involved too.

Ghana

In Ghana, they celebrate ‘National Chocolate Day’ on February 14^th each year. This has been running since 2007 when the government decided to create something to help boost tourism in the country. They are one of the top producers of cocoa (which of course is needed for chocolate!) in the world, and they use this day to run themed menus in restaurants, put on music shows and lots more exciting events..

Wales

In Wales, Valentine’s Day has already been and gone! They celebrate it a little bit differently to the UK, and have the ‘Day of San Dwynwen’ on January the 25^th. Lovers will exchange gifts and cards, as well as beautifully handcrafted wooden spoons which symbolise their love. Giving the Welsh love spoon has been a tradition since the 17^th century and is still carried on to this very day.

Romania

This country has their own unique tradition where instead of giving the traditional store-bought flowers and chocolates, men and women head out to the forest to pick colourful flowers of their own.  In addition to this, some couples even wash their faces in the snow which is believed to bring good luck.

It is held on the 24^th February and is a common day where Romanian people get engaged. It is a celebration of not only love and romance, but the fast-approaching spring season.

Do you know about any other Valentine’s traditions from around the world? Or perhaps you have your own traditions with your partner, family or friends? Let us know what you will be getting up to in the comments on this post, or over on social media!