Valentine’s Day

Written by Penelope Premo

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and this special day is full of romance, candy, and flowers. But do you really know what this holiday originated from?

Every February 14th, we celebrate St. Valentine, but who is this saint that we honor every year? Valentine’s Day is believed to be named after Saint Valentine though historians are not entirely sure which Valentine the holiday refers to. According to one popular legend, Saint Valentine was a Roman priest who lived during the third century. At that time, Emperor Claudius II banned marriages for young men, believing single soldiers made better fighters. Valentine is said to have secretly performed weddings for couples in love. When he was discovered, he was imprisoned and later executed on February 14.

Valentine’s Day may also be connected to the ancient Roman festival Lupercalia which took place in mid-February. The festival focused on fertility and health, not romance. As Christianity spread, the celebration was replaced with traditions that helped shape Valentine’s Day.

By the Middle Ages, the holiday became linked to romance. People believed birds began pairing in February, and writing love notes—called valentines—became popular. Over time, these traditions evolved into the modern celebration.

Today, Valentine’s Day is all about showing appreciation—whether that’s through candy, cards, or kind words. Even though its history is a mix of legends and ancient traditions, the meaning of the holiday has changed into something simple and positive. At its heart, Valentine’s Day is just a reminder to celebrate love, friendship, and the people who matter most.

Our Staff