The day of love hearts, red roses and romance is just around the corner… Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day, is a day that many Australians celebrate with someone they love. The day originated as a Western Christian liturgical feast day honoring one or more early saints named Valentinus, and is recognised as a significant cultural and commercial celebration in many regions around the world.
According to Wikipedia, the day first became associated with romantic love within the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. In 18th-century England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards.
These days typical Valentine’s Day activities include picnics in the park, buying gifts of chocolates, flowers, jewellery, or other items for loved ones, a romantic meal at a restaurant, a boat cruise with a special meal, sharing Valentine’s Day messages via social media and radio announcements. You can have your special Valentine’s message printed in the Parkes Phoenix too – see Love Notes at the end of this story.
Some people choose Valentine’s Day as the day to propose to their partners, while others set February 14 as their wedding day. Some charities and other organisations hold special events, such as a Valentine’s Day ball, to raise funds for various causes that help others in need. Although Valentine’s Day is not a designated nationwide public holiday in Australia, restaurants, theatres, coffee shops, and shops selling Valentine’s Day related products may be particularly busy on this day. It is wise to make a booking if you plan to treat your loved one with a dinner on Valentine’s Day.
The day is celebrated in many countries worldwide. The most common symbols of Valentine’s Day are heart shapes, which are used to decorate many things, including cards, trees, wrapping paper, cookies and gift boxes. Other symbols associated with Valentine’s Day are pairs of birds, cute teddy bears, Cupid and his arrows and couples kissing or embracing. The colors red and pink are often associated with Valentine’s Day.