When is Valentine’s Day 2024? Put love on the calendar
If you’re asking the question of when is Valentine’s Day 2024 now, pat yourself on the back. Many people ask this question hours before the big day- or even worse after it has passed!
Valentine’s Day 2024, and every year, is February 14th. This year, that day falls on a Thursday.
When is Valentine’s Day 2024?
Again, Thursday, February 14.
Valentine’s is a day dedicated to expressing love between intimate companions. It is rooted in history but over time, Valentine’s Day has transformed into a cultural and commercial celebration marked by the exchange of cards, presents, and other demonstrations of love.
It’s not a public holiday, as schools and public officers are still open. It’s usually referred to as one of those “Hallmark Holidays” or one that’s made up for card companies to monetize and boy, do they monetize!
Excitement surrounding Valentine’s Day 2024
Traditionally, couples mark the occasion with romantic activities such as sharing meals, exchanging flowers and presents, and sending greeting cards. While the day in February primarily focuses on romantic love, it has also evolved to encompass broader expressions of devotion, including to celebrate friendships and familial bonds.
History and Significance of February 14
Valentine’s Day is usually traced back to a Christian martyr named Saint Valentine. The story is that during the Roman Empire in the 3rd century, marriage for young men was prohibited, as it was believed single men made better soldiers. Saint Valentine, a priest in Rome, defied this rule and performed marriages for young couples secretly. Eventually, Saint Valentine was caught and killed on February 14, around the year 269 AD.
Valentine’s Day officially started toward the end of the Middle Ages. That is when Pope Gelasius of the Roman Catholic Church deemed February 14 as Saint Valentine’s Day. From then on, lovers expressed their devotion especially on that day publicly displaying how their courtly love flourished. After that, Valentine’s Day was officially associated with courtly love, and exchanging love notes and tokens became common.
Iconic symbols like hearts, Cupid, and roses
Hearts:
Symbolism: The heart is a universal symbol of love and passion. Exchanging heart-shaped items, such as cards, chocolates, and jewelry, is common on Valentine’s Day. Kids love to exchange valentines in class as well.
Cupid:
Mythological Origin: Cupid, or Eros in Greek mythology, is the god of love and desire. Cupid’s presence on Valentine’s Day is a reminder of the whimsical and sometimes unpredictable nature of love. The idea is that Cupid’s arrows can make anyone fall deeply in love.
Roses:
Symbolism: Roses, particularly red ones, have long been associated with love and passion. Each color of rose carries its own significance; red roses symbolize deep love and respect. Giving a bouquet of roses, especially red roses, is a classic gesture on Valentine’s Day.
Romantic gestures and gift ideas – when is Valentine’s Day 2024 anyway?
Obviously, the most popular gesture is presenting flowers on February 14, but there are plenty of other ideas out there for lovers to express their affection.
Personalized Gifts:
Customized jewelry with initials, names, or a special date.
Personalized photo book or framed photo collage.
Experiences:
Plan a romantic weekend getaway or massage
Tech Gadgets:
A gadget that aligns with their interests, such as a new camera or fitness device.
Self-Care Gifts:
Spa gift basket with scented candles, bath salts, and luxurious lotions, or a trip to the salon for Valentine’s Day manicure ideas
Handwritten Letters or Poems:
Express your feelings through a heartfelt letter or poem.
Compile a list of things you love about your partner.
Cooking or Baking Together:
High-quality cooking ingredients or a cooking class gift certificate.
offering confectionery treats like chocolate is a popular one
Books or Bookstore Gift Card:
A book by their favorite author or in a genre they enjoy.
A gift card for a bookstore shopping spree.
Outdoor and Adventure Gifts:
Tickets for an adventure or outdoor experience, like hot air ballooning or zip-lining.
Craft Ideas
Kids especially love to make valentines and make the unofficial holiday special. February 14 is removed just enough from the chaos of the holidays, that the exhaustion has started to fade and it’s time for something to be celebrated.
Dinner Ideas for Valentine’s Day
While sharing a romantic meal is usually expected on February 14, it doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to be special. My husband and I usually opt to stay in and cook because we don’t like the crowds and often pre-fixed menus to get as many people through the restaurant as quickly as possible.
I also like the idea of doing something unexpected. My friends, who have great taste by the way, go to Whitle Castle each year on Valentine’s Day. It’s so unexpected and against the grain that I just love it!
Whether you’re having a romantic dinner or a fun Galentine’s get together, Valentines charcuterie boards are a huge hit. Add some sweetness with meat, cheese and possibly some Valentine’s candy!
Economic impact of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is big business. Loads are spent each year on the holiday. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent an estimated $25.9 billion last year. Despite inflation — or perhaps because of the rising prices — Americans spent more last year than the year before. An estimated $23.9 billion was dropped in 2022. The average consumer spends $192.80.
Conclusion
Remember, the most meaningful gifts often come from the heart and consideration for your partner’s interests. Making it personable or creating a memorable experience makes the gift even more special. However you chose to celebrate, make it personal. For simple easy Valentine’s Day decor ideas, read this.
Hi I’m Erica! TV news anchor and mom to 4 littles. I’m obsessed with creating those “wow” moments in life through crafting at home, cool travel adventures and special celebrations with loved ones. Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
