💘 Valentine’s Day Around the World: Unique Traditions You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
When we think of Valentine’s Day, images of roses, chocolates, romantic dinners, and heartfelt cards come to mind. But did you know that February 14 is celebrated in vastly different ways around the world? From ancient rituals to modern gestures of love and friendship, each culture brings its own flavor to this globally cherished day.
Let’s take a journey across continents to discover how different countries celebrate Valentine’s Day in their own unique way:
🇨🇳 China: Prayers at the Temple of the Matchmaker
In China, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about flowers and chocolates. Couples and singles alike visit the Temple of the Matchmaker to pray for lasting love, happiness, and successful relationships. It’s a spiritual celebration filled with hope.
🇯🇵 Japan: Women Take the Lead
In Japan, it’s the women who give gifts—typically chocolates—to men on Valentine’s Day. One month later, men return the favor on White Day (March 14), continuing the tradition of mutual appreciation.
🇰🇷 South Korea: Chocolate, Noodles & Singlehood
South Korean couples follow the Japanese custom, but with a twist: singles who don’t receive gifts on either Valentine’s Day or White Day gather on April 14, dubbed Black Day, to eat jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) together and reflect humorously on their single status.
🇩🇰 Denmark & 🇳🇴 Norway: Guess the Secret Admirer
Men in Denmark and Norway write anonymous love notes called “gaekkebrev”, often witty and rhymed. These are sent to women, signed only with a series of dots. If the recipient guesses correctly who it’s from, she gets an Easter egg later in spring.
🇸🇮 Slovenia: Love Takes Flight on Saint Gregory’s Day
In Slovenia, February 14 marks the start of the farming season, not a day of romance. It’s believed that birds get engaged and marry on this day. The real celebration of love comes a month later, on Saint Gregory’s Day (March 12).
🇵🇭 Philippines: Mass Weddings of the Heart
Valentine’s Day in the Philippines is known for “Kasalang Bayan”—mass wedding ceremonies where hundreds of couples tie the knot in one grand public celebration. It’s a moving event filled with love, music, and lifelong vows.
🇿🇦 South Africa: Wearing Hearts on Sleeves
South African women embrace the Valentine’s spirit by literally pinning the name of their beloved on their sleeves. This custom stems from the Roman festival Lupercalia, symbolizing open affection and emotional bravery.
🇫🇮 Finland: Celebrating Friendship, Not Just Romance
In Finland, February 14 is known as “Ystävänpäivä” or Friend’s Day. It’s a celebration of companionship rather than romantic love. People exchange gifts and cards with close friends, making it a warm and inclusive tradition.
🌍 Love in Every Language
Valentine’s Day around the world teaches us that love has many expressions—from heartfelt gestures to community celebrations and cherished friendships.
Want to express love better in another language?
👉 Explore our Language Courses and learn how to say “I love you” in 10+ languages. Whether it’s Japanese, French, or Arabic—you’ll be ready to make someone’s day even more special.
