La Saint-Valentin : Valentine’s Day

La Saint-Valentin : History and celebration of “la fête des amoureux” in France

Valentine’s Day, February 14, is considered the day of lovers and friendship in many countries. Couples take the opportunity to exchange sweet words and gifts as proof of love as well as red roses which are the emblem of passion.

History of La Saint- Valentine :  

The real origin of this holiday is attested in the fourteenth century in still Catholic Great Britain where Valentine’s Day was celebrated as a feast of lovers because it was believed that the bird chose this day for a match

Valentine’s Day as a commercial holiday developed in the United States in the mid-nineteenth century, with the sale of cards reminiscent of the small letters exchanged between lovers.

Je t’aime 

Celebration of Valentin’s day in France :

In France, florists make the same turnover on this Valentine’s Day as they would usually do in a week. The rose represents 80% of sales. ¹ 

A kiss – un baiser, un bisou 

Valentine’s day is spent most romantically in France. Much like in rom-com films, people buy red roses, heart shaped chocolates for their partners.  

Couples often reserve a place in the restaurant for a romantic meal. Although, it is really hard to get a reservation since 14th of February is a busy day in all restaurants.  

Tu veux être mon valentin / ma valentine? 

Would you be my valentine ? 

Buying jewellery is often a romantic gesture prefered by many French but not by everyone.  

Sometimes couples exchange cards but nowadays it is not very popular. 

These are some tidbits about La Saint Valentine. Hope you have a good Valentine’s day with your loved ones.  

Wishing you all a Happy Valentine’s Day.