Valentine’s Day is known for being the only holiday to nationally celebrate not a specific date or religion, but an emotion, which is love. The tradition of Valentines dates back many years ago, and has been widely celebrated ever since it was created.

“It’s a good holiday when you have someone to share it with,” said junior Victor Grandowski.

Valentine’s Day dates back to 498 A.D, and is a church ordained holiday. It was made to celebrate the aspect of love, and traditionally was not focused on simply romantic love. It was allegedly started by a saint named Valentine, who was a martyr and assisted those under persecution. Due to his great love and giving he was remembered throughout the ages as an important saint. Valentine’s Day was made on February 14, the day of his death by execution.

Now, the day is a national day for love and the celebration of it. It mostly centers on relationships and the aspects of being in one. It usually is celebrated by giving and receiving flowers, candy, and gifts from significant others or loved ones. It is still celebrated in February 14, and is a popularly commercialized holiday around the world.

“I think it’s very romantic,” said sophomore Nicky Sylvester, “but publicly If someone didn’t get a Valentine it’d make the person feel unwanted.

For example, in the U.K and the U.S the citizens decorate cities with flowers and balloons and the people exchange large and expensive gifts. Children also take part in the holiday and couples go on dates and take the day as their own.

In Italy, the day is more of a festival for people with a lot of dancing and singing in the streets. As in other countries, the day is usually greeted with chocolates and large amounts of flowers.

In Japan, the women concoct homemade chocolates. These candies are then given to their special someone as an appreciative gift. The men later on, on March 14, give the women gifts as a tradition. This is called White Day in Japan. The people decorate their houses with many flowers to add a sense of beauty.

Whatever the country, Valentine’s Day is a worldwide celebration to celebrate the most special thing of all- love. Love brings so many people together on this special day and is the reason for celebration around the world.

An anonymous sophomore said, “I think people celebrate their love for each other. I think Valentine’s Day is filled with love and joy.”