Valentine’s Day has always been that celebration that rolled many eyeballs with its cheesy romantic ideas and typical outings, making the rest of us question what we were doing. (If we are coupled up) should we be doing something (if we are dating), and do we care (if we are not)? Are we missing out if we don’t have a partner? For all its prettiness and cheesy velvet red and long-stemmed roses persona, Valentine’s Day has a more dramatic origins story. (Photos: SlLGhin @sustainablysingle.com)
Valentine’s Day’s roots
Valentine’s Day’s roots can be traced to the ancient Roman pagan festival of Lupercalia, observed in mid-February. Lupercalia was a bloody, violent, and sexually charged celebration awash with animal sacrifice, random matchmaking, and coupling in the hopes of warding off evil spirits and infertility. Characterized by peculiar rituals involving first an animal sacrifice and naked partially-clad men donned in goat skins, engaging in symbolic whipping of women with animal hides from the sacrifice to promote fertility. But during Emperor Claudius’s rule, in the attempt to ‘ Christianise’ Rome, Lupercalia was eventually replaced with a more idyllic ritual, St Valentine’s Day, substituting the unconventional practices with the imagery of cherubic figures wielding arrows, symbolizing a more refined celebration of love.
The association with Saint Valentine adds a poignant layer to the evolution of this celebration. The origins of Saint Valentine’s Day are linked to a Christian martyr named Saint Valentine, a priest who lived during the Roman Empire under the rule of Emperor Claudius II. Legend states that Saint Valentine defied the emperor’s decree prohibiting marriages for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. In an act of compassion and advocacy for love, Saint Valentine continued to perform marriages in secret.
Ultimately, Saint Valentine was apprehended, and while imprisoned, it was reported that many couples had sent him letters of appreciation and flowers. During his time there, he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter, and on the eve of his execution, he sent her a note signing off with “from your Valentine.” This poignant gesture is believed to have inspired the tradition of exchanging heartfelt notes, thus shaping the modern observance of Valentine’s Day.
The naming of the Day after Saint Valentine is a testament to his commitment to the ideals of love, compassion, and the pursuit of genuine human connections, bridging the historical transition from Roman fertility rituals to a more contemporary celebration of love. This transformation highlights the universal appeal of celebrating love and its importance in human relationships.
Today’s Valentine’s Day
In modern times, Valentine’s Day has become a popular holiday celebrated worldwide. It is a day to express love and affection towards loved ones through gifts, acts of kindness, and quality time spent together. The celebration of this day has evolved further, with different customs and traditions being incorporated into the festivities. Some countries have unique Valentine’s Day customs, such as exchanging handmade cards and sweets in Japan or celebrating friendship through a “Dia del Amigo” (Friendship Day) in Argentina.
However, despite its commercialization, Valentine’s Day remains significant for many individuals to cherish and appreciate their loved ones. It serves as a reminder to express gratitude and affection towards those who hold a special place in our hearts. This celebration of love extends beyond romantic relationships, as friends and family often participate in the festivities.
15 heartfelt ways we can show our appreciation to our loved ones.
- Write heartfelt letters or create handmade cards to convey your appreciation.
- Plan a surprise date night at home with a home-cooked meal and a romantic ambiance.
- Curate a personalized playlist of meaningful songs for your relationship and share it with our friend group.
- Assemble a photo album, create a digital slideshow of cherished moments together, or print ‘that photo’ that celebrates a treasured moment and frame it to give.
- Offer a ‘coupon book’ with promises for future dates, chores, or special favors.
- Arrange an outdoor adventure to a place that holds significance to you both.
- Organize a game night with your favorite board games or video games for shared fun. For couples, naughty card games can be a good way to know your partner more.
- Take a class or workshop together to learn something new as a couple or family.
- Start a tradition of giving each other books and spending the evening reading together or hosting old-school game nights like charades.
- Volunteer for a cause important to your loved one, showing shared values in action.
- Craft a homemade gift that reflects your loved one’s interests or hobbies.
- Record a video message recounting your favorite memories and expressing your feelings.
- Create a scavenger hunt with clues leading to a special gift or surprise location.
- Host a virtual celebration with distant friends and family, bringing everyone together.
- Spend a day doing your loved one’s favorite activities, showing interest in their passions.
Want to celebrate without a romantic partner? Read here how you can enjoy Valentine’s day as a single.
