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Find out about the meaning and history of Valentine’s Day, from the ancient Roman ritual of Lupercalia that welcomed spring to the card-giving customs of Victorian England. Saint Valentine, Valentine’s Day, holiday (February 14) when lovers express their affection with greetings and gifts. Given their similarities, it has been suggested that the holiday has origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia , held in mid-February. In this article, we take a look at the various historical and cultural influences that have shaped Valentine’s Day. From the mysterious figure of Saint Valentine and the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia to the medieval traditions of courtly love and the commercialization of the holiday in the modern era, we explore how February 14th became the day to celebrate love. Saint Valentine’s Day, or simply Valentine’s Day, is celebrated on the 14th of February, almost internationally but primarily in western societies. It is a commemorative Christian feast for some but a secular occasion for others who see it as a day to celebrate affection in all of its forms but primarily romantic love. When we think of Valentine's Day, visions of pink hearts, red roses, and one arrow-firing, diaper-clad chubby cherub instantly come to mind. But who is Cupid and how did he become the matchmaker mascot of February 14? The first known Valentine’s Day card was sent by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London in the early 15th century. However, the tradition of exchanging cards became more widespread in the 18th century. When did Valentine’s Day cards become commercially produced? Some say that the history of Valentine’s Day can be traced to the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia. Others say it is rooted in the history of Saint Valentine himself. The evidence indicates that the origins of Valentine’s Day are more likely tied to a 14th-century poem by Geoffrey Chaucer than to a 3rd-century Christian saint. Pope Gelasius declared Feb. 14 as St. Valentine’s Day in 496 AD, and the rest is this history. St. Valentine, a name that is synonymous with love and romance across the globe, lived at a time when the Roman Empire was at its peak. He is often best remembered for the act of marrying couples in secret defiance of the Roman Emperor's bans. Ready to fully dive into the real story behind Valentine’s Day? Read on for an in-depth look at the origins of the holiday, including its namesake saint, Shakespeare’s surprising connection, and some decidedly NSFW rituals practiced in the Roman Empire. Happy Heart Day, y'all! In Need of Valentine's Day Gift Ideas? The exact history of Valentine's Day is a bit murky, but some historians believe the holiday is linked to Lupercalia, a pagan festival that was held annually between Feb. 13 and Feb. 15 in ancient Free ideas. Single and Ready to Mingle: The Blue Bonnet Palace has a free Valentine’s Day party on Feb. 14 for those looking for romance. The Selma dance hall offers a night for singles from 8 Saint Valentine is the name of one or two legendary Christian martyrs whose lives seem to have a historical basis. Celebrated on February 14, Valentine is venerated as the patron saint of lovers, people with epilepsy, and beekeepers. The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre shocked the world on February 14, 1929, when Chicago’s North Side erupted in gang violence. Seven men associated with the Irish gangster George “Bugs History and Customs of Valentine's Day - Valentine's Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, has its origins in both ancient Roman and Christian traditions. Free printable reading with questions (PDF file). From ancient martyrs to heart-shaped chocolates, the history of Valentine’s Day is rich with fascinating stories and misconceptions. 1. Saint Valentine and His Miraculous Love Letter. One of the most enduring myths associated with Valentine’s Day is the story of Saint Valentine sending the very first Valentine’s card. There are two main stories about the origins and history of Valentine's Day. The first involves an old Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia. The second story is about Saint Valentine, a Christian priest who secretly married couples against the orders of the Roman Emperor and was imprisoned and died on February 14th. Saint Valentine’s Day has also been associated with a Christian effort to replace the older holiday of Lupercalia, which Romans celebrated on February 15. Some modern stories paint Lupercalia as Planning the perfect Valentine’s Day ideas for San Diego 2025? Whether you enjoy peaceful strolls, thrilling adventures, or artistic experiences, our curated list has something special for every couple. Explore top romantic ideas like exploring Balboa Park, enjoying a sunset cruise, or dining in the Pope Gelasius declared Feb. 14 as St. Valentine’s Day in 496 AD, and the rest is this history. New strain in Calif. Get the USA TODAY app Start the day smarter ☀️ 🐍Year of the Snake
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