Valentine's Day History

Alright, gents, and all you fabulous folks looking to charm your leading ladies, buckle up because we're about to take a ride through the twists and turns of Valentine’s Day history. Cupid polishing his arrows, chocolates doing the tango, roses and other Valentine’s Day Gifts preparing to take centre stage. Welcome to a thrilling saga of love, legends and gifts!

When is Valentine’s Day?

First things first – mark your calendars, lads! Valentine’s Day, the day of all days for wooing your significant other, falls on the 14th of February every year. It's the day when the air gets a little sweeter, and love, like a mischievous Cupid, is ready to strike.

What is the Real Story of Valentine’s Day?

Ever wondered about the mysterious origins of Valentine's Day? Let’s get to the juicy bits of history, with a dash of mystery and a sprinkle of romance.

Legend has it that our main man, Valentine, was no ordinary chap. Picture this: third-century Rome, where love was in the air, but Emperor Claudius II had other (non-romantic) plans. He thought single soldiers were the A-team, so he banned marriage for the young guns. Enter Valentine, a fearless priest, and rebel with a heart. He decided to play Cupid, defying the emperor's decree by secretly uniting young lovebirds in holy matrimony.

Now, Claudius wasn't exactly the lovey-dovey type. When he caught wind of Valentine's matrimonial mischief, he threw the ultimate plot twist – a death sentence for our heroic priest. Talk about a heart-wrenching climax!

But wait, there's more! Rumour has it that Valentine, even while imprisoned,simply couldn’t resist the call of love. He sent the first-ever Valentine's note to a young damsel (possibly the jailer's daughter) signing it "From your Valentine." A bold move, considering he was about to face the ultimate date – execution on February 14, 270.

So, whether he was a rebel with a heart or the original matchmaker, Valentine left an indelible mark on history, making us all believe in the power of love. The legends of Valentine emphasise the timeless appeal of a hero who risked it all for love.

Why Do We Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

Fast forward to the 8th century, and the Gelasian Sacramentary (it's like the ancient party guide) flagged the 14th of February for Saint Valentine's feast. It further developed during the 14th century when Valentine’s Day became linked with romantic love. Suddenly exchanging sweet nothings and tokens of affection became all the rage.The 18th century witnessed the exchange of love notes and small gifts, setting the stage for the grand celebration we know today. And here we are, celebrating Valentine's Day in honour of the OG romantic rebel. Why is Valentine’s Day still celebrated? Because, my friends, love deserves a day of its own. It's a chance to go all out, show appreciation, and turn up the romance dial with romantic Valentine’s Day gifts for men and women. Whether you’re in a budding romance or a seasoned love story, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to express those feelings that have been simmering on the back burner.

As we close the book on the origins of Valentine's Day, let's raise a toast to the rebellious spirit of St. Valentine and the lovebirds who fluttered through history. This romantic celebration isn't just a day, it's a reminder that love, like a fine wine, only gets better with time. Here's to love, legends, and a Valentine's Day that's as epic as your favourite rom-com!