Valentine’s Day is way more than just a Hallmark holiday
For most people, Valentine’s Day is just a cheesy and expensive celebration that honors the most classic clichés from poetry, quotes, movies, and music, but, whether you’re single, engaged, or coupled up, you may find it interesting to discover how Valentine’s Day got started and celebrated across the globe with flowers and chocolates.
It became a holiday associated with love and romance in the 1300s
The celebration of Valentine’s Day started in mid-February because many believed that birds started their mating season on February 14, which is why doves are often associated with love.
It all started with one person
The most common “founder” of Valentine’s Day is known as Saint Valentine who defied Emperor Claudius II. During that time, Claudius had banned marriage because he thought it distracted young soldiers. Valentine felt a bit differently — he illegally married couples until he was caught. After he was sentenced to his death, young couples would visit his cell and give him flowers and cards. Historians believe he died on February 14.
Even the classic heart-shaped box of chocolates has a history.
Heart-shaped boxes were first introduced in the 1860s, and now more than 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolates are sold each year. That’s 58 million pounds of chocolate!
Valentine’s Day in America is big business
About 55% of Americans celebrate Valentine’s Day and spend an estimated $18.2 billion a year, including more than $1.7 billion on candy alone. On average, men spend about $150 on Valentine’s Day. And women? Just $74.
Say it with Flowers
Americans send more than 220 million roses each year, making flowers the most popular gift during Valentine’s Day, followed by chocolate and jewelry.
Or with a Sweetheart
The famous Necco Sweethearts were first created in the 1860s, featuring around 45 different variations, including the classics “True Love”, “Hug Me”, and “You Rock”. 10 new sayings are added each year, and now you even have the option to personalize your conversation hearts. What will you say?
Are you planning to put a ring on it?
February is the second most popular month after December for proposals. More than 6 million couples worldwide get engaged on February 14. Are you next?
