Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th and is dedicated to expressing love and affection, but traditions vary widely worldwide. In the United States and Canada, it often involves the exchange of cards, chocolates, and flowers, particularly red roses, symbolizing love. In Japan, it takes a unique turn, where women give chocolates to men, and a month later, men reciprocate on White Day. In South Korea, couples also celebrate by dressing up and enjoying romantic dinners. Meanwhile, in Brazil, the Dia dos Namorados, celebrated on June 12th, features similar customs but emphasizes romantic dinners and gifts instead of Valentine’s Day cards. In China, the Qixi Festival, also known as the Double Seventh Festival, occurs on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month and involves couples celebrating their love through various traditions. Each of these celebrations reflects cultural nuances, showing that while love is a universal theme, the way it is expressed can be wonderfully diverse. In Colombia and Guatemala, the holiday is a lot less romantic; friends give each other gifts, and many residents partake in a parade for senior citizens. Overall, Valentine’s Day is a great holiday where love is shown in so many different ways in so many different places. But remember to choose love… and happy Valentine’s Day! XOXO