Valentine's Day
2029Wednesday, February 14
Quick Facts
- Date
- Wednesday, February 14, 2029
- Observed in
- Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria +36 more
- Type
- Cultural Holiday
What is Valentine's Day?
Valentine's Day is celebrated annually on February 14th as a day of love and affection. It's a time when couples express their feelings through cards, flowers, chocolates, and romantic gestures.
The holiday honors the legacy of Saint Valentine and has evolved into one of the most commercially significant celebrations worldwide. From romantic dinners to heartfelt gifts, Valentine's Day provides an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms.
While primarily associated with romantic love, Valentine's Day is also increasingly celebrated among friends and family members, with traditions like exchanging friendship cards and showing appreciation for loved ones.
When is Valentine's Day 2029?
Valentine's Day is on Wednesday, February 14 in 2029. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
Valentine's Day traces its origins to both ancient Roman festivals and the Christian martyrdom of Saint Valentine. The most popular legend tells of a priest named Valentine who defied Emperor Claudius II's ban on marriages for young soldiers by secretly performing wedding ceremonies.
Saint Valentine was executed on February 14th, around 269 AD, and became a martyr for love. The Catholic Church recognized him as a saint, and his feast day became associated with romantic love during the Middle Ages.
The first written valentine is often attributed to the Duke of Orleans, Charles, who sent love poems to his wife while imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415. The tradition of sending Valentine's cards grew significantly in 18th century England.
The commercialization of Valentine's Day began in the 19th century with the mass production of cards, and has since expanded to include flowers, chocolates, jewelry, and romantic experiences.
How It's Celebrated
Valentine's Cards: The tradition of exchanging handwritten or printed cards expressing love and affection. Over 145 million cards are exchanged annually in the US alone.
Red Roses: Red roses symbolize deep love and passion. Florists see their biggest sales day of the year on Valentine's Day.
Chocolates: Heart-shaped boxes of chocolates are a classic gift, with the tradition dating back to Richard Cadbury in 1861.
Romantic Dinners: Couples celebrate with special meals at restaurants or intimate home-cooked dinners by candlelight.
Jewelry: Engagement rings are often given on Valentine's Day, making it one of the most popular days for proposals.
Love Letters: Handwritten letters and poems remain a cherished way to express feelings.
Galentine's Day: Celebrated on February 13th among female friends, popularized by the TV show Parks and Recreation.
Secret Admirers: The tradition of anonymous valentines adds mystery and excitement to the celebration.
Where It's Observed
Fun Facts
- Teachers receive the most Valentine's cards, followed by children, mothers, and wives
- Over 250 million roses are produced for Valentine's Day each year
- Richard Cadbury created the first heart-shaped chocolate box in 1861
- The oldest known valentine was written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans
- Approximately 6 million couples get engaged on Valentine's Day
- Candy hearts with messages were invented in 1866 by Oliver Chase
- About 9 million people buy Valentine's gifts for their pets
- The red rose was the favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Valentine's Day celebrated on February 14th?
February 14th marks the anniversary of Saint Valentine's death or burial around 269 AD. The date was first associated with romantic love in the Middle Ages when it was believed that birds began their mating season on this day.
Who was Saint Valentine?
Saint Valentine was a Christian priest in Rome during the 3rd century. According to legend, he defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying soldiers who were forbidden to marry. He was imprisoned and executed for his actions, becoming a martyr for love.
When did people start exchanging Valentine's cards?
The tradition of sending written valentines began in the 15th century, with the oldest known valentine dating to 1415. Mass-produced cards became popular in the 19th century, and Esther Howland began the first American Valentine's card business in the 1840s.
Why are red roses associated with Valentine's Day?
Red roses have been associated with love since ancient times. In Roman mythology, red roses were linked to Venus, the goddess of love. The red color symbolizes deep passion and romantic love.
What is Galentine's Day?
Galentine's Day is celebrated on February 13th as a day for women to celebrate their female friendships. It was popularized by the TV show Parks and Recreation and has become a widespread tradition for friends to exchange gifts and spend time together.
How much money is spent on Valentine's Day?
Americans spend approximately $25 billion on Valentine's Day annually, with the average person spending around $175. Top spending categories include jewelry, flowers, clothing, candy, and dining out.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Valentine's Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
