What exactly is Valentine's Day?

Dressed in traditional Valentine’s Day colors, juniors Maddy Black and Breanna Loomis pose with a box of Valentine’s Day chocolate. Photo Credit: Roselyn Robison

What is your first thought when you think of Valentine's Day? Is it heart shaped boxes of candy or red roses? For freshman Quinten Koch “the first thing that comes to mind when I think Valentine's Day is love and heart.,” Valentine's Day, also known as Saint Valentine's Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, is celebrated on February 14th every year. This holiday, which is now celebrated by millions of people worldwide, has its roots during the 14th and 15th centuries. Over time the tradition has been passed down to celebrate Valentine's Day with family, friends, and loved ones.

Most people think about monetary gifts for this day: these might include expensive jewelry, flowers, and taking partners out to dinner. The average consumer will spend almost $200 on Valentine's Day; this has increased from 2022. “The National Retail Federation survey found that more than half (52%) of consumers plan to celebrate Valentine's Day this year” according to GoBankingRates.

While this is all nice, Valentine's Day does not need to be all about spending money on expensive gifts and treatments. Sentimental gifts can have just as much value as monetary ones. “I would probably want a sentimental gift more because it would mean more, and I would keep it for longer,” said freshman Anja Lundgren.

There are many ways to celebrate Valentine's Day. Some of the most common traditions are going out for a nice dinner, having parties, and exchanging gifts. Saint Valentine's Day can be celebrated with a partner, but you can also celebrate Valentine's Day with friends and family. “When I was little and we still do it today, in the morning my parents get up early and they lay out our table with cards and chocolates for everyone; then me and my brother usually buy something for my parents like a box from Schocolat and then we have a little Valentine's Day party right before school,” said freshman Cordelia Freeland.

There are many ways and traditions to celebrate Valentine's Day. Whether it is giving a flower to a person you admire or expressing your love to a family member. Saint Valentine's Day is the day of love; however, you choose to celebrate it and show the people you love that you care about them.

Meet Returning Staffer Avery Houghton