Saint Valentine's Day: Home

"Valentine’s Day is the poet’s holiday.” —

Ted Koosner Shares the Poetry of Valentine's Day

SAINT VALENTINE’S DAY, holiday honoring lovers. It is celebrated February 14 by the custom of sending greeting cards or gifts to express affection. The cards, known as valentines, are often designed with hearts to symbolize love. The holiday probably derives from the ancient Roman feast of Lupercalis (February 15). The festival gradually became associated with the feast day (February 14) of two Roman martyrs, both named St. Valentine, who lived in the 3d century. St. Valentine is regarded as the patron saint of lovers.

Taken from Saint Valentine's Day in Cultural Studies: Holidays Around the World