International Valentine's Day Fun
Customs from Japan, South Africa, Denmark and Brazil
Spice up your Valentine's Day and add one of these international customs to your celebration; homemade chocolate is one way to show your sweetheart how much you love him.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated across the world. Some international customs are distinctly different than American Valentine’s Day traditions. Surprise your sweetie on Valentine’s Day by adding some international flair to your celebration.
Valentine’s Day in Japan
On February 14, Japanese women give chocolates to their romantic interest. Men do not reciprocate this act until March 14, White Day. Storefronts in Japan are filled with chocolate in the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, but many Japanese women prefer to make homemade chocolates. A gift from the heart shows that the woman has true love for the recipient. However, the chocolate in the stores does not go to waste. It is customary for all women to give the important males in their lives chocolate for Valentine’s Day. A woman’s supervisor and male friends can expect to receive store-bought chocolates in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Honor the Japanese Valentine’s Day tradition and make your special someone homemade chocolates this year.
Lupercalia in South Africa
Lupercalia is actually an ancient Roman tradition but it is still practiced in modern day South Africa. Young women pin the name of their love interest on their sleeves for all to see. Sometimes the young men are not aware of their secret admirer until February 14. Do as the South Africans do on Valentine’s Day and surprise your sweetie by pinning his name on your sleeve.
Gaekkebrev and Snowdrops in Denmark
Valentine’s Day is most commonly celebrated in Denmark by those under 30. The youth of Denmark celebrate by presenting each other with Gaekkebrev; funny and romantic love notes that are not signed. They also present their loved one with white flowers called snowdrops. Send your loved one an anonymous note this year on Valentine’s Day and celebrate as the Danish do.
Dia dos Namorados in Brazil
Valentine’s Day in Brazil is not celebrated on February 14th; Dia dos Namorados is commemorated on June 12th. This day celebrates St. Anthony of Padua who is believed to bring good fortune on marriages. As with all celebrations in Brazil, the day is celebrated with lavish parties complete with beautiful costumes. You can easily honor the Brazilian Dia dos Namorados without a huge party. Send your loved one a special note or gift on June 12th and celebrate with the Brazilians of the world.
Including one of these international Valentine’s Day customs into your day will add a little excitement to your celebration. Show your sweetie how special they are and introduce some international flavor this Valentine’s Day.
For more international holiday customs read the following articles: International Christmas Traditions and International New Year’s Customs.
Sources:
Dgreetings
My Dear Valentine
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