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Valentine’s Day

Religious observance on February 14 honoring early Christian martyrs named Valentine, later associated with romantic love and affection.

Sunday
14
February 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEFebruary 14
OBSERVED INInternationally
SUBCATEGORYRomance
ORIGIN

Religious Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY
Not documented
FIRST OBSERVED
5th century
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Valentine's Day originated as the Christian feast day commemorating the martyrdom of one or more 3rd-century Roman saints named Valentine. The observance is first reliably recorded in early martyrologies of the 5th century, evolving from local veneration of martyrs without a single founder or decree.

View Official Announcementvia britannica.com
INTRO

Introduction

Valentine's Day on February 14 is the perfect time to show your special someone how much they mean to you! This holiday has been celebrated for centuries, but it wasn't until the 1800s that flowers and cards became a popular way of expressing one's love. Nowadays, Valentine’s Day is widely recognized as an opportunity to share affection with friends and family near and far.

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TIMELINE

Valentine’s Day Timeline

Saint Valentine's Day

Saint Valentine, a priest who was martyred for his Christian faith in Rome, was beheaded on February 14, 270.

Recognition of Valentine's Day

Pope Gelasius declared February 14 to be Saint Valentine’s Day in the year 496 to honor the late martyr.

First Valentine's Day Note

The first known Valentine’s Day note was written by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was held in the Tower of London.

Flowers and Cards Became Popular

By the mid-1800s, flowers and handwritten cards had become a popular way for people to express their love on Valentine's Day.

Hallmark Valentine's Day Cards

Hallmark Cards began mass producing Valentine's Day cards in 1913, which made it easier for people to express their feelings.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

EDITOR'S PICK

Bake a cake

What better way to show your love than by baking a cake for your special someone? Show off your culinary skills and make it as romantic and memorable as possible.

GO

Go on a picnic

Pack up a basket of goodies, head to the park and enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars. Make sure not to forget the blanket!

SEND

Send a card

A heartfelt card is always appreciated, and it's the perfect way to show your appreciation to those you love. Write a few words of love and send it off with some flowers or chocolates.

PLAN

Plan a day trip

Take some time out of your busy schedule and plan an exciting day trip for you and your valentine. Visit somewhere new or explore a nearby city. Make sure to take lots of pictures!

THROW

Throw a party

Invite all your closest friends over for an evening of fun, food, drinks and entertainment! It will be the perfect way to celebrate Valentines Day with the ones you love.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Valentine’s Day

It brings people closer together

One of the best things about Valentine's Day is that it encourages people to come together and celebrate their relationships. Whether you're spending it with family or friends, it gives us the chance to share our love and appreciation for each other in a meaningful way. So this year, don't forget to take some time out of your busy schedule and enjoy the holiday with those you care about most!

It's a day to celebrate love

Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved one how much they mean to you. It's a chance to express your feelings and let your partner know that you appreciate them. Whether it's through an extravagant gift, romantic dinner or simple gesture, there are plenty of ways to make Valentine's Day special!

It sparks creativity

If you're looking for an excuse to do something creative, Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity! From handmade cards and gifts to fun activities together, there are countless ways to make Valentine's Day memorable and unique. Plus, it's often a great way to spend quality time with your significant other!

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