Why do we celebrate valentines day

So as you choose your card and gift this year, remember the sentiment of the very first valentine written by St. Valentine himself—while gifts are a popular choice, a love note to your special someone can be just as meaningful. By Emily VanSchmus January 11, Save Pin FB More. Credit: Darcy Miller Designs.

Comments Add Comment. Back to story Comment on this project. Tell us what you think Thanks for adding your feedback. All rights reserved. The truth about Valentine's Day history is that the romantic holiday isn't immune to trauma.

In Prohibition Chicago in , seven men were killed by a gang organized by Al Capone on February The Valentine's Day Massacre became a flashpoint in Prohibition history, with police and lawmakers going after the gangs and mobs that had formed in cities to control then-illegal substances like alcohol.

Over the years and centuries , Valentine's Day has been a religious celebration, an ancient ritual day, and a commercial holiday. All that change means the meaning of Valentine's Day is truly whatever you want it to be: You can skip the celebrations completely, buy yourself some chocolate or flowers, or express your love and appreciation for the people in your life, whether they're co-workers, romantic partners, friends, or family members.

Some people love Valentine's Day, and some people just love to hate it; Galentine's Day and Galentine's Day gifts are a relatively new way to celebrate, as women stock up on Valentine's Day ideas for her and celebrate their love for their closest friends.

If you're trying to figure out what to do on Valentine's Day, just know that there are no rules: It's a new era, and you can celebrate the day of love however you want, even if it's just through self-love. A nice dinner out, going to the movies, cooking a fancy meal at home, or hosting a Valentine's Day party are also great ways to celebrate; whatever you do, if you have a romantic partner, just make sure you're on the same page to avoid any disappointments or hurt feelings.

Save FB Tweet More. Valentine's Day date , meaning, history, date, and more - candy hearts for Valentine's Day Credit: Getty Images. Scientist at the University of Rochester did a study that found people were more attracted to others who wore red. And where did the idea of chocolates come from? Well, apparently that, comes from good marketing. Some traditions include leaving lollies and gifts for children and others include acts of appreciation between friends.

Valentine's Day is most commonly associated with romantic love, with millions of Valentine's Day cards being exchanged each year. Gifts of flowers or a single red rose are sent with romantic messages to loved ones and couples spend special time together. Many couples choose to celebrate Valentine's Day with dinner, a picnic or special home-cooked meal.

Many restaurants offer Valentine's Day dinner promotions and food is often presented with symbols of love like hearts and flowers. Another popular Valentine's Day activity is to indulge in a luxury hotel stay in a beautiful location, allowing a couple to get away from it all and enjoy some quality time together.

Marriage proposals are also popular on Valentine's Day, and it is often chosen as the perfect day to express their love and commitment. Some marriage proposals are delivered very creatively, such as after climbing to the top of a mountain, or posting a message on a billboard. Whatever the method, marriage proposals made on Valentine's Day are generally romantic and memorable.