by David Riel

Created on: February 08, 2008

Have you ever wondered how Valentine's Day is celebrated worldwide? Do people everywhere celebrate this day of love and romance?

Let's take a quick trip around the world and find out!

Valentine's Day Around the World

In Japan they celebrate Valentine's day - by giving chocolates to men on February 14! Then, to reciprocate, on March 14 the men give chocolates to the women who gave them chocolates in February.

In China they celebrate Chinese Valentine's day on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. Couples in love wistfully gaze at the firmament and pick out from the night sky the special star that signifies their love.

Thailand isn't known as the Land of Smiles for nothing. Flowers and fine chocolate are given to Thai ladies who reward their suitors generosity in the traditional manner: a kiss.

In South Africa, Lupercalia is celebrated on February 14. Young women, and even some young men, pin their lovers names to their sleeves in the hope that this will win them their lovers heart. The day is often spent by couples, young and old, in a special romantic place.

Scotland has a more subdued Valentine's Day with a simple exchange of cards and small gifts, and small gatherings or parties where games are played. Watch out if you're invited to a Valentine's Day party in Scotland though. They may play a game where you draw names from a hat and many Scottish couples have been matched up this way.

Canada is still very cold on Valentine's Day as it's winter there in February. Hot chocolate, and spicy cinnamon hearts are all, accordingly, popular gifts. Canadian Eskimos rub noses to keep warm!

In the United States children exchange Valentine's Day cards at school. Everyone gets plenty of cards so nobody feels left out! Men buy red roses for their sweethearts, or chocolates, or jewelry.

Valentine's Day isn't a traditional holiday in India, but in recent times it has become very popular. Gifts of candy, flowers, and tokens are considered very romantic and cards are exchanged between loving couples.

Italians don't traditionally celebrate Valentine's Day; they celebrate love every day of the year! But on February 14, if you visit Italy then, don't be surprised to be given Baci Perugina, a chocolate made with hazelnuts and wrapped in paper with romantic verse written on it.

In France they've been celebrating Valentine's Day since the Middle Ages. They exchange cards, fresh flowers, and gifts. Valentine's Day cards originated in France.

Well, we've been all around the world and seen that love is indeed celebrated in all countries. Valentine's Day is celebrated worldwide with enthusiasm by lovers of all nationalities, all of whom hope to endear themselves to their beloved, and win their hearts through gifts and other tokens of affection. The spirit of Valentine's Day is as universal as love.

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