Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14 each year as a day dedicated to love, romance and affection. It is one of the most commercially significant dates on the global calendar: Americans spend around $26 billion on Valentine's Day gifts, flowers and experiences annually, while UK consumers spend over £1 billion. The holiday is also widely observed in Canada, Australia, France, Germany and many other countries, though its commercial intensity varies significantly by region.
The holiday is named after Saint Valentine — or possibly more than one Christian martyr of that name — from the early centuries AD. The romantic associations of Valentine's Day developed in the Middle Ages, notably through the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer and other poets who described February 14 as the time when birds chose their mates. The first recorded Valentine's message was sent by Charles, Duke of Orléans, to his wife in 1415 while imprisoned in the Tower of London. The mass-production of Valentine's cards began in the 1840s in the UK and US.
Today Valentine's Day is the second-largest greeting card sending occasion in the US (after Christmas), with approximately 145 million cards exchanged annually. The most popular gifts are chocolates, flowers (particularly red roses), jewellery, perfume and romantic experiences like restaurant meals. It is the single busiest day of the year for restaurants in most English-speaking countries.
When is Valentine's Day 2027?
Valentine's Day 2027 falls on Sunday, February 14.
When is Valentine's Day 2028?
Valentine's Day 2028 falls on Monday, February 14.
Is Valentine's Day a public holiday?
Valentine's Day is not a public holiday in any country. Shops, schools and offices remain open.
Who was Saint Valentine?
Saint Valentine was likely a Christian priest in Rome martyred around 270 AD. His historical connection to romantic love is unclear — the romantic associations developed through medieval literary tradition, particularly Chaucer's poetry.
What are the most popular Valentine's Day gifts?
The most popular gifts are: chocolates and sweets, red roses or mixed flowers, jewellery (especially gold and diamonds), perfume, personalised cards and romantic experiences (restaurant dinners, spa breaks, weekend getaways).
How much should I spend on a Valentine's Day gift?
US adults spend an average of $192 on Valentine's Day. UK adults spend around £49 per person. There is no standard amount — the gesture and personalisation matter more than the price.
When should I book a Valentine's Day restaurant?
Popular restaurants in major cities can fully book out for February 14 within 24–48 hours of opening reservations — sometimes as early as January. Book as early as possible if you want a specific venue.
What are good Valentine's Day date ideas?
Popular ideas include: dinner at a favourite restaurant, a weekend hotel getaway, cooking a meal at home, a live music show or theatre performance, a spa day or couples massage, a scenic hike or picnic, or a cooking class together.
Do same-sex couples celebrate Valentine's Day?
Yes. Valentine's Day is broadly inclusive and celebrated by couples of all genders and orientations. It is also increasingly observed as a day to celebrate friendships ('Galentine's Day') and self-love.
What is Galentine's Day?
Galentine's Day is an unofficial holiday on February 13, popularised by the TV show Parks and Recreation (2010), celebrating female friendships. Many people now celebrate it as a broader 'friends' day before Valentine's Day.