Valentine's Day - history and loving tips

Valentine's Day is the day of love, celebrated on 14 February. But why do we really celebrate? And who was that Valentine? We also offer some insight into other countries' celebrations - and some loving tips. Wishing everyone a happy Valentine's Day!

The history of Valentine's Day

The celebration of Valentine's Day started quite late in Sweden. It was inspired in the 20th century by the American tradition, which is still more important there than here.

Medieval origin

Although the celebration in Sweden only started in the 20th century, it is actually a holiday with medieval origins. During the spring festivals in England and France in the Middle Ages, girls and boys were paired together in play. Why 14 February? Well, because in the Middle Ages this day was considered to be the day when birds formed pairs.

St Valentine's Day

14 February is Valentin's name day. St Valentine was a Roman saint about whom little is known. In fact, we don't even seem to know for sure which Valentine we are talking about. There were at least three St Valentine's who were martyred in the 2nd and 3rd centuries.

Perhaps the most famous of these is the priest Valentinus in ancient times. Romewho is said to have been beheaded on 14 February 269 AD, during Emperor Claudius II's persecution of Christians. He chose martyrdom instead of renouncing his Christian faith. The offence? He would have married a Christian couple.

Romantic legends

Throughout history, many romantic legends have arisen around Valentine's Day. Valentine cards were produced as early as the 15th century and commercially produced cards were sold in the 18th century.

In modern times, a legend has emerged that tries to explain the origins of Valentine's letters. According to the legend, the imprisoned Valentine got to know the jailer's daughter, and before he died he wrote a farewell letter signed 'Your Valentine'. However, this story does not seem to have any historical background.

Modern traditions - flowers and sweets

In Sweden, it was retailers who recognised the tradition and predicted good sales opportunities. The first signage for Valentine's Day in Sweden was put up in 1956, and since then sales of flowers and sweets in particular have increased.

Valentine's Day in other countries

Valentine's Day celebrations may still be biggest in the US, UK and other English-speaking countries, but today people around the world celebrate in slightly different ways.

In South Korea women give chocolates to the men they like on Valentine's Day. A month later, on White Day on 14 March, it is the men's turn to give gifts to the women.

In Wales In addition to Valentine's Day, it also celebrates Dydd Santes Dwynwen (St Dwynwen's Day) on 25 January. St Dwynwen's Day commemorates St Dwynwen, Wales' patron saint of love.

In Finland is known as 'turning day'. The day was added to the Finnish calendar in 1987 and aims to remember friends. The celebrations include dinners, flowers and turnaround cakes.

In Croatia people like to give their loved ones "licitar hearts", a heart-shaped pastry.

Five loving tips for Valentine's Day

We conclude with five loving tips for Valentine's Day.

1. love and care for everyone

Love is not only about romance and infatuation, but also about caring for our loved ones. In these times, many people are struggling. What better way to show that we are thinking about the people around us? Perhaps sending a text message or making a phone call will do the trick.

2. A loving dinner

Why not organise a loving dinner with your partner or family? Set a nice table, light some candles and cook something you like. Here are some suggestions:

• A classic 3-course dinner with starter, main course and dessert. A dinner always feels a little more luxurious if it can be delayed!
• What is more romantic than shellfish? Feast on oysters, mussels or prawns.
• Go all in with a red/pink theme! Get creative with ingredients like beetroot, tomato, red onion, red cabbage, chilli fruit, salmon, lobster, red lentils, red apples, fresh figs, raspberries...
• Fondue perhaps? Choose between meat fondue and cheese fondue. Another option is to cook a different main course - and finish with chocolate fondue instead.
• A romantic pasta dinner with spaghetti a lá Lady and the Tramp on Christmas Eve. A glass of red is the icing on the cake.

3. Luxuriate with chocolate

Of course, if you want a little extra something, you can add a little extra chocolate. This can be in the form of chocolate pralines (perhaps heart-shaped!) or in the form of a dessert, such as chocolate mousse, chocolate fondant, chocolate ice cream or sponge cake. Preferably topped with some red berries!

4. a gift (it's the thought that counts)

Sure, it can be nice to give a gift to a loved one. But it doesn't necessarily have to be something expensive or special. It's the thought that counts! Maybe some chocolate truffles, a good tea or a freshly baked bread.

5. a romantic trip, excursion or home evening

Travelling? In these times, travelling is of course limited, but in other years you can check out romantic destinations such as Paris and Florence, pier, Marrakech or the Maldives. It can also be romantic in the Swedish mountains or at a spa. Or why not settle for a cosy evening at home? Maybe candlelight, a fire, good food and a (romantic) film.

How do you celebrate Valentine's Day?

We believe that love is important every day, not just one day a year. Men we plan to cook an extra good dinner and buy a luxurious dessert. Do you celebrate Valentine's Day in any way? If so, how?

Factual sources: Nordic Museum and Wikipedia. Image sources: FREEDOMtravel and Pixabay. Top image in the post: Dinner at a restaurant in Marrakech during one of our trips.