Traditions of Love Around the World
When you picture Valentine’s Day, what do you envision? Is it red roses and chocolates? Grand gestures and fancy dinner plans? Or love letters and Cupid?
In the United States, the month of February seems to revolve around Valentine’s Day, and while American lovers customarily show their affection by giving flowers and sweets and making romantic plans, the celebration of love takes a multitude of forms all around the world. Come along with us to explore some of these traditions across the globe!
Finland: platonic love’s place to shine
In Finland, February 14th marks the holiday of Ystävänpäivä which translates to “friend’s day”. For the holiday, friends gather for group outings or meals, publicly declaring and celebrating their friendships! This celebration is particularly interesting as it was only established in 1980!
South Korea: a series of love celebrations
In South Korea, February 14th is not just centered on couples but is instead traditionally focused on men! Women give chocolate or gifts to the men. One month later, the men who received gifts on Valentine’s Day give gifts to women on March 14th. This day marks the celebration of White Day which found its name based on the giving of white chocolate, white candies, or other white-colored gifts.
No partner? No worries! Those who did not receive gifts on Valentine’s Day or White Day can celebrate Black Day on April 15th. This day celebrates singles who may gather with other single friends to eat Jjajyangmyeon, noodles in black bean sauce.
Brazil: day of the enamored
While many celebrate Saint Valentine as a symbol of love, the people of Brazil honor Saint Anthony, known for blessing young couples with happy and prosperous marriages. Dia Dos Namorados, which translates to “day of the enamored” or “lover’s day” is celebrated on June 12th, the eve of Saint Anthony’s Day, and is characterized by gifts of flowers and chocolates and date nights.
The diversity in these traditions reflects the beauty of different cultures, and they all prove the importance of celebrating your loved ones and yourself. Whenever and wherever you celebrate love this year, remember these various traditions, and try celebrating one that is new to you, learning some new words with your loved ones along the way!
