It’s the most romantic day of the year! *singing voice* Valentine’s Day is coming up and most likely plans are being made, whether it be with a significant other or your gal pals. As much (or not much) planning goes into this day, have you ever considered what Valentine’s Day really is on a broader spectrum? Here are some fun facts that you may find interesting and even share on your date night with your partner or friends!
1. According to retail statistics, it is estimated that about 3% of pet owners will give Valentine’s Day gifts to their pets. As if that wasn’t adorable enough.
2. During the Middle Ages, young men and women would choose their Valentine by randomly picking a name out of a bowl. This piece of paper with a name would be pinned on a sleeve for a week for everyone to see and was the origin for the expression “to wear your heart on your sleeve”.
3. Richard Cadbury introduced the first Valentine’s Day box of chocolates in 1868. Now that’s quite a tradition that was simply established.
4. Teachers tend to receive the most Valentine’s Day cards followed by children, mothers, wives, sweethearts, and pets. Clearly educators have quite the charm.
5. Every Valentine’s Day, V-Day takes action, which is an activist movement that helps raise awareness to end violence against women and girls. You can learn more about what they do here.