New Delhi: Love never fades; it always stays within us. Valentine’s Day, February 14, is around the corner, but the celebrations began on Rose Day, which was celebrated on February 7. Valentine’s Day is a day in which the world celebrates love.
But did you know some countries celebrate love in different ways? Read on to learn about such countries and their ways of celebrating love.
Valentine’s Day Celebrations Across the Globe
Japan
In Japan, Valentine’s Day is on February 14. Women buy gifts and chocolates for their male friends and lovers. Then, on March 14, called White Day, men return the favour with chocolates. While “I love you” exists in Japanese, people usually say “I like you” to express their feelings.
South Korea
In South Korea, Valentine’s Day is popular among young couples. Like in Japan, women give men gifts, flowers, and chocolates on February 14. Men return the gifts on White Day. These celebrations are mainly for younger people and singles to share their feelings. Additionally, on April 14, single individuals celebrate Black Day by eating black bean sauce noodles. This Day can be seen as a celebration or a lament of being single. There is also Rose Day in May, Kiss Day in June, and Hug Day in December.
China
Valentine’s Day is known as the Qixi Festival or the Seventh Night Festival in China. This holiday falls on the 7th Day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar. It is based on a legend of a cowherd, Niulang, and a girl weaver, Zhinü, who meet only on this Day. A common tradition involves girls praying to Zhinü for sewing skills, as she is seen as a talented weaver.
Guatemala
In Guatemala, Valentine’s Day resembles the American tradition. Couples often go out for dinner, dance or take a weekend trip to places like Antigua or Atitlan Lake. Single people celebrate with friends or house parties. Many also exchange gifts at work, school, or church, similar to Secret Santa in the US.
Argentina
In Argentina, people celebrate love three times a year. Valentine’s Day is called Día de Los Enamorados, including chocolates, flowers, and teddy bears. In July, there is a Week of Sweetness (La Semana de la Dulzura), where people give candy in exchange for kisses. This tradition started in 1989 and includes showing appreciation to friends and family. Additionally, July 20 is Día del Amigo (Friends Day), when friends gather to celebrate.
Egypt
Valentine’s Day is a significant festival in Egypt, especially for younger people. Couples typically go out for dates and exchange gifts like roses and chocolates. Restaurants and florists prepare in advance for this holiday. Egypt also has a second holiday for love on November 4, created to honour all kinds of love after a journalist noticed a lack of mourners at a funeral.
Mexico
Valentine’s Day is called El Día del Amor y la Amistad (the Day of Love and Friendship) in Mexico. This holiday originated in the United States but is now widely celebrated. People exchange small gifts with friends, family, and romantic partners. Schoolchildren often share candies with classmates. During this week, vendors sell candy, balloons, and roses on the streets. Some men even hire Mariachi bands to serenade their lovers.
Russia
Russia has a mix of interesting traditions. Young people celebrate Valentine’s Day by going to restaurants and exchanging gifts like heart-shaped cards, flowers, and chocolates. Additionally, on July 8, Russians celebrate Peter and Fevronia Day, the Day of Family, Love, and Faithfulness. This Day honours Peter and Fevronia, the Orthodox patrons of marriage. It became an official holiday in 2008, similar to Valentine’s Day. Cities typically have concerts, craft fairs, and fireworks for this occasion.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide, but traditions vary greatly. This article explores diverse cultural celebrations of love, from Japan’s reciprocal gift-giving on Valentine’s Day and White Day to China’s Qixi Festival and Argentina’s “Week of Sweetness”. Discover how different countries express affection, highlighting unique customs and traditions surrounding love and friendship. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
