Valentine's Day customs
Lovers around the world give each other flowers on Valentine's Day. In many parts of the world, the rose is the undisputed classic - it is considered the flower symbol of lovers. But just as countless countries differ in their lifestyles, customs and traditions, they also celebrate Valentine's Day in a diverse, colourful and unique way. We invite you on a little love journey around the world.
Valentine's Day greetings in Italian - Giorno di san Valentino
Italy, the land of love - especially on Valentine's Day, Italian lovers live up to their reputation. Many couples traditionally give each other flowers on Valentine's Day, but a newer ritual is giving the florists a run for their money. Lovers arrange to meet on bridges and attach padlocks as a symbol of their commitment. The key is then sunk in the river as befits the occasion.
Valentine's Day surprise in Japanese - Ai No Hi
Anyone expecting flowers for Valentine's Day in the Far East is mistaken. In the Land of the Rising Sun, the usual role model (men give gifts to women) is turned on its head. In Japan, it is the men who receive the gifts. This Japanese speciality could not be sweeter. Based on the idea of a resourceful confectioner, the ladies give the men white chocolate, which is why the Japanese equivalent to Valentine's Day is also called "White Day". How convenient that Fleurop also sends Valentine's Day gifts...
Valentine's Day in Finnish - Ystävänpäivä
In Finland, Valentine's Day on 14 February is not exclusively dedicated to lovers, but to friends. The Scandinavians celebrate the so-called Ystävänpäivä, the day of friendship. On Valentine's Day, Finns send small gifts and greeting cards to those they are friends with. Fleurop has some gift tips for friends - whether a Valentine's greeting for your best friend or Valentine's flowers for your best friend.
Valentine's Day in Chinese - Qixi
Qixi - this is what the traditional festival of lovers is called in China. On the 7th day of the 7th month, the Chinese celebrate the legend of the shepherd boy Niulang and the fairy Zhinu - the story of a forbidden love. After many imponderables and obstacles, the two finally found each other. Since then, they have symbolised self-sacrificing love and unconditional partnership. However, Valentine's Day is now also celebrated in China according to the Western model. When is it celebrated? On 14 February, in proper style with flowers.
Valentine's Day in Danish - Valentinsdag
In Denmark, young lovers show humour and skill in equal measure on Valentine's Day. The humorous love poems known as Gaekkebrev are mainly sent among young people. The verses are written on artfully cut paper so that the more or less serious love message reaches its recipient in the form of a paper snowflake. The lucky recipient is now left guessing, as the sender remains anonymous. If you want to underline your love with poetry, you can find inspiration for Valentine's Day poems here.
Valentine's Day in South Korean - Ballentain Dei
Similar to Japan, South Koreans are given white chocolate by their admirers on Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day in South Korea takes on a special flavour afterwards. Those who go away empty-handed on Valentine's Day eat noodle soup with black bean paste on 14 April - on what is known as "Black Day". So your sweetheart doesn't have to eat black sauce: Send the classic love greeting for Valentine's Day.