Happy Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day: A Sweet Tale of Love, Desserts, and Quirky Traditions!

Why did Cupid choose love over chocolate? Discover the charming quirks of Valentine’s Day!

Valentine’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating love, has been around for centuries. It’s the perfect excuse to spoil that special someone with gestures that range from elaborate romantic dinners to heartfelt notes. While many of us may have our own traditions for the occasion, it is interesting to note just how varied they can be across different cultures. In this column from 2023, I’ll share my perspective on what Valentine’s Day means to me, updated with some fun facts! The origins of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to St. Valentine in Ancient Rome. As the tale goes, he was a priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriages for young men, believing that love was worth fighting for. His passion for romance not only got him executed but also paved the way for a holiday that would become synonymous with love and affection. Couples have since adopted this day to express their feelings in creative and meaningful ways. For me, it’s also a wonderful day to reflect on all the loving relationships in my life, be it with friends or family. When it comes to celebrating, there’s no one size fits all. Some prefer a cozy night in, adorned with candlelight and their favourite takeout, while others might go all out with an extravagant evening featuring dining at the trendiest restaurant in town. And let’s not forget the sweets! Chocolate is basically the unofficial mascot of Valentine’s Day, and nothing says “I love you” quite like a box of fine chocolates or a decadent dessert. I’ve always found that a surprise dessert is the way to anyone's heart! Yet, with all this love floating around, have you ever found yourself giggling at some of the odd ways people celebrate? From “Propose Day” to “Slap Day” (yes, that exists!), the many peculiar rituals add an element of humor to the occasion. Valentine’s Day is not just about posh dinners and sentimental gifts; it’s also about bringing a smile to whoever or whatever your heart desires. So whether you're celebrating with a partner, friends, or indulging in self-love, make it a day filled with joy! And speaking of joy, did you know that more than 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are sold each year on Valentine’s Day? That’s a staggering amount of love and sugar! Also, approximately 150 million cards will be exchanged, making it the second largest holiday for card-sending in the world, right behind Christmas. So, this Valentine’s Day, let’s raise a glass to love, laughter, and possibly a little too much chocolate!