When it comes to romance, what can top a day dedicated to celebrating love?
Valentine’s Day, which traditionally falls on February 14, is the perfect day to light a few candles, go out to a fancy restaurant, and show your loved one just how much you care.
At least, that’s how we typically celebrate it here in the U.S. But there are plenty of other ways to approach the adorable celebration.
Maybe it’s about showing your family how much you love them — like this sweet single dad who took his daughter out for Valentine’s — or maybe it’s about celebrating your affection for your very best platonic friends.
In fact, people all over the world have very different interpretations of the holiday. Here in America, it’s all about hearts and flowers — but travel outside of the country, and you’ll stumble on some truly beautiful and unique traditions!
Scroll through the gallery below to see all the amazing ways that different people worldwide celebrate Valentine’s Day!
England
Some women in England still follow an old-fashioned tradition that dates back centuries, placing five bay leaves on their pillow the night before.
According to legend, the woman who follows this formula will dream of her future husband!
Denmark
In Denmark, it's customary to trade out roses and lilies for a simpler bloom: the snowdrop.
Danish folks press these snowdrops in intricate "Lover's Cards," and exchange them with friends and romantic interests alike!
Korea
Here in the states, it used to be common for most Valentine's gifts to be given by men.
Korea puts a spin on that, making it a tradition for women to hand out boxes of chocolates on February 14.
One month later, it's up to the men to return the favor!
Wales
Instead of Valentine's, the Welsh actually celebrate a few weeks earlier, on the Feast of St. Dwynwen — another patron saint of love.
They exchange carefully carved wooden spoons, often designed with a motif of hearts, to show their love.
South Africa
South Africans follow an ancient Roman tradition called Lupercalia, which was the forerunner of modern Valentine's Day.
Part of the tradition is pinning the name of your loved one to your sleeve for the world to see!
France
This French custom has fallen by the wayside in recent years, but in the past, the French celebrated with a "lottery of love."
In this tradition, men gathered in one house and women gathered in another across the street, and were paired up randomly by a matchmaker drawing numbers!
Estonia
Estonians take the pressure out of Valentine's Day, making it all about friendship and platonic love!
No stress about crushes and candy, just a fun day to celebrate your best buds!
Germany
Valentine's Day in Germany looks a lot like our own celebrations, except for one key detail!
Along with flowers and candlelight, Germans also celebrate with giant, heart-shaped gingerbread cookies, usually with elaborate decorations and heartfelt messages!
Know any cool and unusual Valentine's customs we forgot? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to SHARE on Facebook!
