Valentine’s Day Around the World: Wild, Wacky & Heartwarming Traditions You Didn’t Know About
Valentine’s Day. That day of the year when love is in the air… or at least in every store window, restaurant menu, and Instagram post. While many of us are used to the classic dinner dates, sweet-smelling roses everywhere, and heart-shaped chocolates, other parts of the world have their own unique, sometimes bizarre, ways of celebrating love.
So, grab a cup of something warm, and let’s take a little global tour of Valentine’s traditions that might just blow your mind.
1. Japan – Where Women Make the First Move
In Japan, Valentine’s Day isn’t about men planning elaborate surprises. It’s women who do the gifting. And not just any gift. It has to be chocolate. But wait, there’s a catch.
There are two types of chocolates:
- Giri-choco – “Obligation chocolate” for colleagues, bosses, and sometimes even people you don’t like (ouch).
- Honmei-choco – The real deal, given to crushes, partners, or spouses.
And the men? They just sit back and wait. But don’t worry, they return the favour a month later on White Day (March 14) by gifting white chocolates, jewelry, or even lingerie. Because Japan doesn’t do subtle.
2. South Korea – Not Just One, But 12 Love Days?
Speaking of Asia, South Korea takes romance very seriously. They don’t just have Valentine’s Day and White Day. They have a love-related day on the 14th of every month.
A quick rundown:
- January 14: Diary Day – Couples exchange planners for the year (cute, right?)
- April 14: Black Day – Singles mourning their lack of romance by eating black noodles (Jjajangmyeon).
- November 14: Movie Day – Because what’s love without a little cinematic drama?
It’s like a never-ending rom-com, and honestly, we’re here for it.
3. Denmark – Love Notes & Mystery Admirers
Denmark has a quirky little Valentine’s tradition called Gaekkebrev that involves poetic, anonymous love notes written on fancy-cut paper. If the recipient guesses who sent it, they get an Easter egg later in the year. So, if you play your cards right, romance could quite literally get you free chocolate.
4. Wales – Forget Flowers, Get a Love Spoon
Move over, Hallmark cards. In Wales, they’ve been giving love spoons since the 17th century. Hand-carved wooden spoons are gifted to loved ones, with different symbols representing different meanings. Hearts for love, keys for security, and wheels for—wait for it—supporting your partner in life’s journey.
Honestly, we love a meaningful, no-waste romantic gesture.
5. The Philippines – Mass Weddings Galore
Imagine walking into a wedding… and seeing hundreds of other couples getting married at the same time. That’s Valentine’s Day in the Philippines, where mass weddings are a huge deal. Local governments even sponsor these events, making it easier for couples to tie the knot.
So, if you ever find yourself in Manila on February 14, don’t be surprised if you stumble into a love festival.
6. Brazil – Love, Samba, and No Valentine’s Day 
Forget February 14—Brazilians celebrate “Dia dos Namorados” (Lovers’ Day) on June 12. Why? Because Carnival season is way more important in February. Who has time for candlelit dinners when you’re busy dancing in the streets?
7. South Africa – Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve (Literally)
In South Africa, people take inspiration from the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia by pinning the name of their crush to their sleeve. This means your secret admiration isn’t so secret anymore. Bold? Yes. Stressful? Also yes.
So, What’s the Best Valentine’s Tradition?
Honestly? That depends on you. Whether you’re into love spoons, anonymous poetry, or just eating too much chocolate, there’s a Valentine’s Day tradition somewhere in the world that fits your vibe.
Or, you know, you could skip the hype altogether, grab some favourite food, and celebrate in the best way possible, your own way.
