Unusual Valentine’s Day Customs Around the World
Valentine’s Day is widely associated with romantic love, chocolates, flowers, and candlelit dinners, but different countries celebrate it in unique and sometimes surprising ways. Here’s a look at some of the most unusual Valentine’s Day customs from around the world.
1. South Korea – Love for Every 14th of the Month
In South Korea, Valentine’s Day (February 14) is just one of many romantic celebrations throughout the year. On this day, women give chocolates to men. A month later, on March 14 (White Day), men return the favor with gifts of candy or more elaborate presents. Those who remain single celebrate April 14 (Black Day) by eating black noodles (jajangmyeon) as a humorous acknowledgment of their single status.
2. Denmark – Pressed Flowers and Anonymous Love Poems
In Denmark, lovers exchange pressed white flowers called snowdrops instead of roses. Another charming tradition is “gaekkebrev”, a witty or humorous poem written anonymously and sent to a loved one. If the recipient correctly guesses the sender’s name, they win an Easter egg later in the year.
3. Japan – Chocolate Hierarchy
In Japan, women give chocolates to men on Valentine’s Day, but the chocolates have different meanings:
Giri-choco (Obligation Chocolate) – Given to male coworkers, bosses, and acquaintances.
Honmei-choco (True Love Chocolate) – Reserved for boyfriends or husbands.
Tomo-choco (Friend Chocolate) – Given to female friends as a sign of appreciation.
A month later, on White Day (March 14), men reciprocate, typically with white chocolates or even luxurious gifts like jewelry.
4. Wales – The Love Spoon Tradition
Rather than celebrating Valentine’s Day, the Welsh observe St. Dwynwen’s Day (January 25), dedicated to the patron saint of lovers. The most unique tradition is the gifting of intricately carved wooden love spoons, often featuring symbols such as hearts, keys, and horseshoes to represent love, security, and luck. This custom dates back to the 17th century.
5. The Philippines – Mass Weddings
One of the most spectacular Valentine’s Day traditions takes place in the Philippines, where mass weddings are held. Hundreds or even thousands of couples tie the knot in a single ceremony, often sponsored by the government or private organizations to help couples who cannot afford a traditional wedding. This has become a major event in the country.
6. Brazil – Lovers’ Day in June
Instead of celebrating on February 14, Brazilians observe Dia dos Namorados (Lovers’ Day) on June 12, the eve of St. Anthony’s Day, the patron saint of marriage. The day is filled with romantic gestures, music, dancing, and festivals, making it a grander celebration than Valentine’s Day in many other countries.
7. Estonia & Finland – Friendship Over Romance
In Estonia and Finland, Valentine’s Day is more about friendship than romance. The day is called "Sõbrapäev" (Friendship Day) in Estonia and "Ystävänpäivä" (Friend’s Day) in Finland, where people exchange gifts and cards with both friends and romantic partners. It’s a day of inclusivity rather than just couples celebrating love.
8. South Africa – Wearing Your Heart on Your Sleeve
In South Africa, some people take an old Roman tradition literally by pinning the name of their crush or loved one on their sleeve. This custom, inspired by the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia, can be a bold and public declaration of affection.
9. Germany – Pigs and Gingerbread Love Messages
In Germany, pigs symbolize luck and lust, so it’s common to give pig-themed gifts on Valentine’s Day, such as figurines, chocolate pigs, or pig-themed cards. Another popular tradition is gifting large heart-shaped gingerbread cookies (Lebkuchen) with sweet messages written in icing.
10. Bulgaria – Wine and Love Celebration
In Bulgaria, February 14 is not just for couples—it’s also “Trifon Zarezan,” the day of wine. Many Bulgarians celebrate love and good fortune by enjoying wine tastings and vineyard festivals. It’s a day for both romantic partners and wine lovers alike.
While Valentine’s Day is recognized globally, these unique customs show that love is celebrated in diverse ways. Whether it’s chocolate hierarchies in Japan, mass weddings in the Philippines, or poetic snowdrop flowers in Denmark, each country brings its own charm to this romantic holiday.
Would you like to incorporate any of these traditions into your own celebrations?
