The day of love.  Valentine’s Day is typically a day for us to express our love for those near and dear. Thoughtful Valentine’s Day cards, heart shaped boxes of chocolate, cupid and his arrows, and the color red seem to dominate this holiday.  But why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day?  Is it just a made up holiday?  We’ve gathered some facts and trivia about Valentine’s Day that might just enlighten you…

History and Origins

  • The origins of Valentine’s Day is traced back to the ancient Roman celebration of Lupercalia which was held on February 15.  This day honored the gods Lupercus and Faunus, as well as the legendary founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus.
  • The first Valentine gift was sent by “Duke of Orleans” to his wife, after he was captured in 1415.

Symbols of Love

  • Cupid is said to be the symbol of Valentines. Cupid is associated with Valentine’s Day because he is believed to be the son of Venus. Venus is the Roman god of love and beauty. 
  • The heart is associated to Valentine’s Day as it is considered the source of all human emotions. 
  • The red rose is also the symbol of valentines day because it is a favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.  All over the world, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine’s Day each year.

Gifts From The Heart

  • According to stats 73% of Valentine Day flowers are bought by men, whereas women buy only 23% of Valentine flowers. 
  • According to the survey approx. 3% of pet owners prefer giving Valentine gifts for their pets, as pet are more grateful than humans. 
  • Each year around 1 billion Valentine cards are sent across. After Christmas this is the single largest seasonal card-sending occasion. 
  • Children between ages 6 to 10 give more than 650 million Valentine’s cards to their teachers, classmates, and family members. 
  • Verona, the place where Shakespeare’s lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives approximately 1,000 letters every year for Juliet on Valentine’s Day. 

This year celebrate with the one you love on Valentine’s Day, even if it’s just with a simple I love you!

Need some Valentine dinner or dessert ideas…check out what we’ve put together for the perfect Valentine’s Night!

Shop our cupid approved collection of Valentine’s Day Cards