As Valentine’s Day comes up, the idea of tradition and where this holiday originated is on the forefront of everyone’s mind.
While some like to believe that it is a simple holiday created for lovers, it actually started as a festival to welcome in the new season and celebrate fertility. Most Valentine’s Day customs come from the ancient Roman Ritual of Lupercalia. Lupercalia, celebrated from February 13 to 15 was dedicated to three main Roman gods. The Roman God of Agriculture, Faunus, and the two founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus.
This festival continued up until, “the initial rise of Christianity but was outlawed—as it was deemed “un-Christian”—at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine’s Day” states History.com Editors in the article “History of Valentine’s Day.”
Pope Gelasius named the 14th Valentines Day after the Saint Valentine of Rome because he was known for chivalry and love.
Saint Valentine is often seen as a symbol of Christianity because of a well known story about him. In the article, “St. Valentine,” by Catholics Online it talks about how the man Saint Valentine successfully restored the child’s eyesight and was granted whatever favor he wanted from the judge. This legend is commonly known by many Catholics because it’s taught during the month of February.
Valentine’s Day many now know of started around the 17th century. It was not just the United States that continues to celebrate lovers and friendships but also Canada, Mexico, Great Britain and many other countries. It was common for everyone to exchange gifts, small or big, and give letters and love notes to each other.
Later on in time, cards started being mass produced for easier access, since it was an easier way to show others their affection. “Today, according to Hallmark, an estimated 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year” says Hallmark.com in the article “About Valentine’s Day.”
Valentine’s Day is a way to show love for others and spread positive feelings throughout the day. No matter if a person is single or dating, this holiday should be celebrated by all.
