So, we know that February 14 is the day to spoil our loved ones but it’s celebrated differently in different places. In the US, for example, it’s about showing love to everyone, not just romantic interests. So, teachers and friends get gifts as well as partners and boyfriends and girlfriends. In the UK, it’s definitely a day for lovers but there’s also a boon for shy would-be suitors with the tradition of sending anonymous cards and gifts – lovely when at school but possibly slightly freaky in these days of stalkers and the like.
But why do we mark out February 14 as the day of lovers? Well, there are several theories, the most common of which gives it Roman origins, but some also say it is based on an ancient Pagan fertility rites which, frankly, sound much more fun!
The Roman version has St Valentine – of which there were two of the same name martyred on the same day some years apart – one was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers, who were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians persecuted under the Roman Empire. Legend has it that, during his imprisonment Saint Valentine restored the sight of a blind girl and, before his execution, wrote her a letter signed “Your Valentine” as a farewell.
The day became more widely associated with romantic love in the 14th century and gifts and love notes were popularized in 18th century England – though it’s not clear when people started sending them anonymously.
In Europe, Saint Valentine’s Keys are given to lovers “as a romantic symbol and an invitation to unlock the giver’s heart”, as well as to children, in order to ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine’s Malady).
Obviously, these days, St Valentine’s Day has become a major event. The following pages have some inspiration on what to do, where to go and some great gift ideas to help win your loved one’s heart.
