When we think of Valentine’s Day, we generally think of pink and red balloons, flowers, and expensive gifts. Countless forms of love suddenly get stuck in a cliché… But let’s get away by looking at how some traditions handle love and romance with different dimensions!
Did you know that each country celebrates Valentine’s Day differently? Let’s explore the top five unusual Valentine’s Day traditions!
1. Korea
Are you someone who can’t get enough of celebrating Valentine’s Day? If you want to experience romance 12 months of the year, Korea is the right place! It has become a tradition in Korea on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, that women give chocolate to their lovers to symbolize their love. On March 14th, “White Day,” men give gifts to women in return for the chocolate women bought on Valentine’s Day. Although the 14th day of each month is special, gift-giving is generally only for Valentine’s Day and White Day. Compared to the Japanese traditions, Valentine’s Day and White Day are celebrated in a similar way to the Korean tradition.
2. Wales
In Wales, love is celebrated on “St. Dwynwen’s Day” on the 25th of January. Although there are common features such as gift-giving and going out to dinner with loved ones, there is a tradition unique to Wales. In Wales, flowers and chocolates do not symbolize love. It is represented by love spoons given on St Dwynwen’s Day!”
3. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic celebrates Valentine’s Day on the 1st of May. Wouldn’t Valentine’s Day be more enjoyable with the freshness of spring without the cold of February? If you decide to celebrate in the Czech Republic, do not forget to visit the Karel Hynek Mácha Statue, leave flowers there, and kiss your sweetheart under the cherry trees!
4. Denmark
Valentine’s Day cards associated with Denmark are worth keeping for a lifetime! In Denmark, there are special cards for Valentine’s Day. For instance, one of these cards is transparent and when held up to the light, a photograph of the lover appears. Another card is called “snowdrop.” These white cards are given to lovers and friends on Valentine’s Day.
5. Taiwan
Taiwan celebrates Valentine’s Day twice a year, February 14th and July 7th, with the magic of flowers. Do not let flowers sound like a cliché to you! The meaning of the flower’s changes according to their color and number. For instance, a red rose represents “love,” while 99 roses represent “eternal love.” Do you know what 108 roses mean? “Marry me!”
