Flashback to elementary school, when everyone had their decorated paper bags placed on their desks, and the class ran around the room distributing their variously themed Valentine’s day cards. In middle school, there were always those obnoxious couples who went all out (no offense if that was you) carrying shiny pink helium balloons and oversized stuffed animals through the halls. When February 14 rolled around in high school, these traditions had almost disappeared. But, now in college Valentine’s, or GAL-entine’s, is just an excuse to watch Rom-Coms, drink wine and eat chocolate with your best friends. But what do these traditions look like in other countries?
1. Japan
Feb. 14 in Japan revolves around women and girls handing out two different kinds of chocolate. The first, Giri-choco, is handed out to friends and family. “Giri” means obligation, and it is used to recognize loved ones and show your love for them. It is usually fairly cheap. The second type, Honmei-choco, is either more expensive and fancier than Giri-choco or specially handmade. These special chocolates are given to someone the girls are romantically interested in. These romantic gifts are reciprocated on March 14, known as White Day, where the men traditionally return the favor in threefold.
2. Denmark
A newly celebrated holiday in Denmark, Valentine’s day is celebrated by giving Snowdrop flowers instead of roses to friends or romantic partners. Another way to celebrate is the exchange of “lovers cards” which traditionally held a photo of the card giver presenting a gift to their lover. However, a more quirky version of Valentine’s Day cards, called “gaekkebrev” or “joke letter” is also handed out. These letters are intricately cut, almost like paper snowflakes, and include a funny poem. The author signs his name with dots, one for each letter of his name. If the woman guesses who correctly, she wins an Easter Egg when that time of year comes.
3. France
As the love capital of the world, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Valentine’s cards originated in France. It is believed that the first Valentine’s Day card was sent in 1415 when the Duke of Orleans was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Additionally, another less romantic tradition occurs with the loterie d’amour, or “drawing for love.” Men and women would call out to each other from houses across streets and couple up. Men who weren’t satisfied with their choice could leave that woman for another. The unmatched women would gather in the streets for a bonfire, spitting curses and burning pictures of men who had wronged them. Let’s just say it got so crazy that the government eventually had to ban the tradition.
4. Brazil
Because February or March is reserved for Carnival, Brazilians celebrate something similar to Valentine’s day on June 12. Dia dos Namorados, or “Lovers’ Day,” is celebrated by the usual chocolates, flowers, and cards but also includes music festivals. Anyone can be given a gift or can share dinner during this celebration, as it is not strictly romantic. The day following Dia dos Namorados is Saint Anthony’s Day, who is the patron saint of marriage. In hopes that St. Anthony will bring them the husband of their choosing, women often participate in rituals called simpatias on this day.
These are just a few of the many different Valentine’s Day celebrations from around the world! How would you feel about trying out one of these traditions instead of sticking to your usual movie night with your girls?
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest!