On February 14th, internationally known as Valentine’s Day or Lover’s Day, is celebrated in many corners of the planet. Although its essential meaning is shared, the ways to celebrate vary according to local cultures and traditions.

From rituals with chocolates in Asia to festivities based on friendship in Europe. Valentine’s Day has evolved to include a wide range of expressions of affection and human connection.

Valentine’s Day in Asia: chocolates, reverse homage, and unique days

In Japan, on Valentine’s Day, it is the women who traditionally give chocolates to men on February 14th. These treats are divided into: honmei choco, dedicated to couples or romantic interests, and giri choco, intended for colleagues or friends with a friendly gesture.

Additionally, a month later, on March 14th, Japan and other countries like China or South Korea celebrate White Day, where men return gifts to women who offered them chocolates in February.

In South Korea, there is also another tradition related to this season: Black Day (April 14). Although not an official holiday, it has become a date where single people gather to share a typical dish called jajangmyeon (noodles with black sauce), giving a playful and social twist to the celebration of love.

European Traditions: Romanticism, Friendship, and Curious Symbols

In many European countries, Valentine’s Day is associated with classic romantic gestures. Such as the exchange of flowers, letters, and intimate dinners. In the United Kingdom, for example, the focus is heavily marked by the expression of feelings through poems, flowers, or jewelry, in addition to romantic dinners in special settings.

In other places, celebrations adopt particular nuances. In Nordic countries like Finland and Estonia, February 14th is celebrated as a day of friendship (Ystävänpäivä), focused not only on couples but also on deep friendships between close people.

In Germany, a traditional symbol of Valentine’s Day is chocolate pigs or ceramic figures, representing good luck and prosperity for the couple, complementing the usual roses and chocolates.

In Croatia, the celebration combines love and gastronomy with licitari, heart-shaped decorated biscuits given as a symbol of affection.

Celebrations in America and other regions

In the United States, the exchange of cards known as valentines is a rooted tradition, not only between couples but also between friends and classmates, especially among the younger ones.

In Brazil, the date dedicated to love is celebrated differently: Dia dos Namorados takes place on June 12th, on the eve of the feast of Saint Anthony, considered the patron saint of marriage, and is celebrated with gifts, flowers, and romantic moments between couples.

In several Latin American countries, such as Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, or Uruguay, February 14th is also commemorated as Lover’s Day, with exchanges of gifts, dinners, and gestures of affection, keeping alive the tradition that has been globally adopted in recent decades.

Beyond dates: Love as a Global Experience

Although practices vary, the essence of Valentine’s Day, expressing feelings of affection, love, and connection, is a common thread worldwide. Whether through traditional chocolates in Asia, sophisticated dinners in Europe, creative cards in the U.S., or celebrations focused on friendship in Nordic countries. This day invites us to deepen our emotional bonds in very diverse and meaningful ways.

Valentine’s Day and AMA Islantilla Resort: an unforgettable romantic getaway

At AMA Islantilla Resort, we want this Valentine’s Day to be much more than a date: a complete experience to celebrate love. We reopen our doors on February 6th, just in time for the most romantic month, with a proposal designed to create memories together.

Days of rest in luxury rooms, room service breakfasts, relaxing moments in our SPA, couples massages… and many other romantic surprises that complement a perfect getaway by the Atlantic.

Here, love is not only celebrated on February 14th. It is lived in every detail and every moment you share with your special someone in a unique and peaceful environment.