Pastel colored candy hearts, boxes of heart shaped chocolates and dozens of red roses are all images associated with Valentines Day in America. Traditionally on Feb. 14, loved ones give each other chocolates, roses and presents on Valentines day and spend a romantic night together.
The actual history of Valentine's Day is somewhat mysterious. History.com notes that one legend says that Valentine was a priest during Rome's third century.
"When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death," according to History.com.
Whatever it was historically, has become something commercial, Hallmark and different entirely, but overall, it's still about love. The way Americans celebrate Valentines day is the most well known, but how do other countries celebrate the holiday?
Japan
In Japan, Valentines day is a smaller event where women give men chocolate. White day which is on March 14 in Japan, is a day when men are supposed to return the favor and give women chocolate.
Italy
In Italy, Valentines Day was once a celebration of Spring. Now, however, Valentines Day is similar to the American version and a popular thing to do is give Baci Perugina which is a chocolate covered hazelnut that has a piece of paper in it with a romantic quote or poem in four languages.
Israel
For many Israeli's the 15th day of August is similar to Valentine's day in the U.S. It is known as Tu b'Av or the festival of love and on that day it is common to give gifts like flowers and cards and show love to others.
China
Some Chinese celebrate Valentines Day on Feb. 14, adopted from America but China also has a special day on Aug. 6 this year. The day is called Qi Qiao Jie, and is also known as the "Begging Festival" or "Daughter's Festival" and traditionally girls prepare fruits and pray to find true love and marriage.
Guatemala
In Guatemala Valentines Day ins kno as El Dia del Carino and is a colorful day full of friendship as much as it is about love. It is also know as the day of amor y Amistad or love and friendship, Guatemalans exchange cards, flowers and chocolates with loved ones and friends.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
