Hearts, roses, chocolates and cards: Valentine's Day, February 14, is the most famous celebration of love in the world. Couples go out for dinner, friends exchange cards, and children share valentines with classmates. While it is often associated with romance, many people now use the day to show love to family and friends too. Its history is a fascinating mix of saints, poetry and greeting cards.
History of Valentine's Day
The day is named after St. Valentine, but historians are not sure which Valentine. Early Christian records mention at least two martyrs named Valentine who died around the 3rd century in Rome. Later legends say one secretly married couples against the emperor's orders, but there is little historical evidence for these stories. Some writers have linked the date to the Roman festival of Lupercalia in mid-February, though that connection is debated.
The romantic link appears in the Middle Ages. In the 1300s, English poet Geoffrey Chaucer wrote about birds choosing their mates on 'Seynt Valentynes day'. By the 1400s, people were writing love notes called valentines, and the custom grew in Britain and France.
In the United States, Esther Howland of Massachusetts began selling elaborate, lace-trimmed valentines in the 1840s and is often called the 'Mother of the American Valentine'. Mass-produced cards in the 20th century made Valentine's Day one of the biggest card-sending holidays of the year.
Why Valentine's Day Matters
Valentine's Day is a chance to tell people you love that they matter, something that can be easy to forget in daily life.
It also supports many small businesses, from florists and chocolatiers to restaurants and card makers.
How to Celebrate Valentine's Day
- Write a heartfelt card: specific words matter more than an expensive gift.
- Cook a special meal: make dinner at home together.
- Celebrate friends and family: send valentines to parents, grandparents or friends.
- Give handmade gifts: try baked treats, a playlist or a photo album.
- Spread kindness: deliver cards to a care home or hospital.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, keep Valentine's Day inclusive: a treat in the break room or appreciation notes for colleagues works better than anything romantic. In classrooms, many schools hold valentine exchanges; a class list ensures every child receives a card, and students can make cards for residents of a local care home. History lessons can explore how the holiday changed over time. At home, families can make valentines together, bake heart-shaped cookies, or plan a special family dinner. For couples, a simple evening of undivided attention is often more meaningful than an expensive gift.
Fun Facts About Valentine's Day
- Chaucer is credited with one of the earliest links between Valentine's Day and romance in the 1300s.
- Esther Howland sold elaborate valentines in the U.S. from the 1840s.
- Historians are unsure which St. Valentine the day honors.
Valentine's Day FAQs
When is Valentine's Day?
Valentine's Day is February 14.
Who was St. Valentine?
Historians believe there were at least two early Christian martyrs named Valentine, but little is known for certain.
When did people start sending valentines?
Handwritten valentines appeared by the 1400s; mass-produced cards became popular in the 1800s and 1900s.
Is Valentine's Day only for couples?
No. Many people celebrate love for friends and family too.