Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day History

Valentine's Day is a festival celebrating affection and relationships. Derived from both Christian and Roman traditions, the day marks the exchange of love messages, chocolates, gifts, and frequently concludes with romantic dinners. Emphasized by the representation of Cupid, heart-shaped decorations and the color red, Valentine's Day symbolizes love, affection, and appreciation towards loved ones.

Valentine's Day began as the Feast of Saint Valentine, a Western Christian feast day honoring the early saints named Valentinus. The festival became associated with romantic love in the Middle Ages, leading to its widespread acceptance as Valentine's Day in modern times. In the Netherlands, Valentine's Day is relatively new compared to countries like England and France. It started gaining relevance in the late 20th century, due to American cultural influences. Still, Dutch people have embraced the day wholeheartedly, inundating partners with well-thought-out presents, ensuring they know how loved they are.

People in the Netherlands celebrate Valentine's Day in various meaningful ways. Romantic partners express their love by exchanging gifts, bouquets of flowers, especially roses, and heart-shaped chocolates. Many also write love-filled cards carrying poetic lines to express their passion. A few Dutch cities, such as Amsterdam, offer special Valentine's Day events, including romantic canal cruises and exclusive dinner nights for couples. For some, the day provides the perfect moment to propose marriage to their loved one. Valentine's Day is celebrated February 14th each year.

Facts about Valentine's Day

• Symbols for Valentine's day include hearts, chocolate, flowers, and Cupid - the Roman God of Love.
• Love looks not with the eyes but with the mind. And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind - William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream
• Dutch flower markets play a significant role during Valentine's Day celebrations, as the Netherlands is the world's largest exporter of flowers. Tulips, roses, and other flowers are often gifted to loved ones as a symbol of affection.
• It is not uncommon for people in the Netherlands to use Valentine's Day to anonymously express their feelings towards someone they secretly admire, often sending anonymous cards or small gifts.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Valentine's Day

Top things to do in Netherlands for Valentine's Day

• Send someone you care for a Valentine's Day card. Take the time to write a small note or love poem inside. Sign it, from your Valentine.
• Remember other important people in your life, such as your parents, grandparents and old friends. Send them a small card or gift to remind them of how much you care.
• Visit Keukenhof Gardens: Although this place opens from late March, if your Valentine’s Day celebration extends into a spring trip, this world's largest flower garden is a must-visit.
• Have a Picnic at the Vondelpark: If the weather allows, couples might enjoy a romantic picnic in the famous Vondelpark in Amsterdam.