Valentine's Day is viewed by many couples as a day to celebrate the love between them, but is also seen by many people, regardless of their relationship status, as a day to commemorate the feelings they have for friends and family.
Historically, this mid-February holiday is a feast day for one of two Saint Valentines, who were both martyred for their stance on Christianity. The holiday also falls close to an ancient pagan fertility festival.
While the origins of Valentine's Day come from pagan and ancient Roman roots, it is today celebrated by people in many countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Valentine's Day Traditions in Canada
Valentine's Day in Canada has traditionally been celebrated with enthusiasm. Balls, parties, and other social events are usually organized in honor of the holiday and couples and singles alike come together to celebrate February 14th. These parties often involve elaborate celebrations and couples celebrate the holiday in many different ways.
Valentine's Day in Canada TodayToday, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Canada by people and lovers of all ages.
Young children often exchange Valentine cards with classmates at classroom parties. Cards are sometimes placed in boxes that each child decorates so that there is something to hold cards and treats from other classmates. Younger students are encouraged to make Valentine cards by hand instead of purchasing them for the special day's festivities.
Younger students are also taught songs, skits, or concerts to perform on Valentine's Day. These performances are often centered around a love story and can be somewhat historical or completely fictional.
Young adults often celebrate Valentine's Day by attending school dances organized by school organizations or societies. These dances can be in varying degrees of formality and are attended by students with and without significant others.
Students are also encouraged to make fancy, handmade Valentines to give to teachers, parents, and other relatives. Adults also send decorated cards to lovers or to family members in honor of the day.
Popular gifts for Canadians celebrating Valentine's Day include flowers, chocolates, sparkling wine, or jewelry. Adults also go out for meals, take mini vacations, or spend nights in luxury hotels.
Valentine's Day is celebrated by many people around the world as a day to commemorate the love among people. While there are those who mark the day as a religious holiday, others see the day as a chance to spend time with loved ones and to celebrate the relationships that keep people together.
Ashley Anderson - Ashley is an Ohio-based writer and editor with specializations in higher education, writing, and social activism.
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