Valentine's Day 2026: Know significance, history, traditions of 'festival of love'
How did Valentine's Day develop?
It wasnt until more than 200 years later that February 14 was proclaimed St Valentines Day. By this time Rome had become Christian and the Catholic Church was determined to stamp out paganism. A pagan fertility ritual was held in February each year and the Pope abolished this festival and proclaimed February 14 as Saint Valentines Day.
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Significance of Valentine's Day
It is a day for lovers to express affection, though it has expanded to include showing appreciation to friends and family.
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Valentine's Day traditions
Popular customs include exchanging valentines (cards), roses, chocolates, and, in 2026, a high demand for personalized jewellery.
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Events of Valentine's Week
Leading up to February 14, various days are celebrated: Rose Day (7 Feb), Propose Day (8 Feb), Chocolate Day (9 Feb), Teddy Day (10 Feb), Promise Day (11 Feb), Hug Day (12 Feb), and Kiss Day (13 Feb).
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Popular Gifts for Valentine's Day
Beyond traditional flowers and candy, 2026 trends include personalized, wearable fine jewellery and lab-grown diamonds.
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Valentine's Day Symbols
The practice of sending love messages developed into people sending special cards expressing their affection. These cards were beautiful creations handmade by the sender and individually designed to show how much they loved the recipient.
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Image X @Cristiano
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