England:
Similar to the American tradition, the British also exchange chocolate and flowers and often write poetry for each other. Children also join in the fun by singing songs all day long.
Italy:
The “Day of Love” is celebrated intensely in this country and couples get together to enjoy music and poetry and exchange gifts. They also sometimes exchange small boxes of hazelnut-filled chocolate “kisses” called “baci perugina” (baci means “kiss” in Italian). Each box is accompanied with a romantic quote. According to old tradition, the first man a girl sees that day will become her husband and they would be married within a year.
Finland:
The Finnish celebrate this day as more a celebration of friendship. People exchange gifts and cards that say “Happy Friends Day.” It is also a popular day to tie the knot or get engaged.
Taiwan:
Flowers are what this country is famous for on Valentine’s Day. And they actually celebrate it twice a year: on February 14th and also on July 7th. The men are expected to give bouquets of flowers to their love and according to tradition, the color and number of flowers will represent a different message. Red roses will represent an “only love,” 99 roses will represent “love forever,” and 108 roses signifies “popping the question.”
Japan:
This country also celebrates the holiday with the tradition of giving chocolate, but with a twist. The women buy the chocolate and the type of chocolate given signifies different relationships. Normally they buy “Hom-mei” (a chocolate strictly for boyfriends and husbands) but also give chocolate to their friends and co-workers as well. The women have to wait a whole month to receive their gift, which is usually white chocolate.
Scotland:
Imagine celebrating the most romantic day of the year with a stranger. As a popular tradition in the Scottish culture, the first man or woman a person sees on the street becomes his or her Valentine.
Germany:
In Germany lovers will exchange flowers, chocolates and something very different than in America… a pig! It represents love and lust and can be given in any form found to be fit: a picture, miniature statue or even chocolate.
Argentina:
Valentine’s Day is a weeklong celebration in Argentina. From Feb. 13-20, they exchange candy and kisses. This week typically ends with a “Friendship Day.” They also set aside a week in July for “Sweetness Week.”
South Africa:
Celebrations take place all week long around Valentine’s Day. Young girls celebrate the day with a tradition called “Lupercalia.” The tradition requires girls to pin the name of their lover on their sleeve.
