February 14, Valentine’s Day, is the day of expressing love to your mate. Tracing back to history, during the Middle Ages, in England and France, February 14 was commonly believed to be the beginning of birds’ mating season. It gave birth to the idea that February 14 should be a day dedicated to love and romance. But the most famous legend behind this “lovers’ day” is the story of St. Valentine, the legendary priest whom the modern Valentine’s Day pays honors to. The patron saint of this legend was from the third century Rome who used to perform secret marriage for young couples when marriage was outlawed by the then king to make man a better soldier. After getting caught by the cruel Emperor Claudius II, this noble saint was sentenced to death. Thus St. Valentine has become immortal in the heart of every young lover. 14 February is the day to pay tribute to this great sacrifice of St. Valentine.

In present times, Valentine’s Day Festival celebrations are massive in several countries across the globe. The festival has emerged as a popular dating and gift-giving festival and therefore has a major social and economic significance. It may be noted that Valentine’s Day started as a romantic festival but today the festival has increased in scope. These days, Valentine’s Day is essentially regarded as festival that celebrates love between individuals and not just lovers. People therefore wish “Happy Valentine’s Day” to parents, teachers, siblings, friends or any other person special to them.

Though there are various traditions and customs associated with the festival, the most popular way of celebrating Valentine’s Day is by expressing love to sweethearts and dear ones with an exchange of gifts. Some of the most traditional Valentine’s Day gifts exchanged between lovers are fresh flowers, chocolates and cards. Jewelry is also fast emerging as the most sought after Valentine’s Day gift for women. In the modern technologically advanced age, exchange of text messages between friends and loved ones has become a norm.

Going on dates with beloved is the other major way of celebrating Valentine’s Day Festival. Restaurants see a busy time as people celebrate the day of romance with a candle light dinner. People also participate in Valentine’s Day dance parties and balls organized by various clubs and hotels. Private parties are also organized in homes and farmhouses where young and the old have a blast. Some couple use the occasion to propose their beloved while some choose to get engaged on the festival that celebrates love and lovers.