8 Unique Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World You Should Know

February is widely known as the month of love, commonly celebrated as Valentine’s Day. Around the world, many countries have their own Valentine’s traditions, some romantic, others unique and unexpected.

Most people celebrate Valentine’s Day with their partners, from young couples to older generations. However, did you know that many people also use this moment to confess their feelings to someone they admire, often by giving a special gift?

That said, several countries, including Russia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and many Muslim-majority countries—do not officially allow Valentine’s Day celebrations. In recent years, public celebrations have also been discouraged due to the global pandemic that began in 2020.

Valentine’s Day Traditions Differ Across the World

Each country has its own way of celebrating Valentine’s Day. Some consider it a very important occasion, while others treat it as optional and leave the choice to their citizens. Below are Valentine’s traditions from different countries that you might find interesting.

Valentine’s Day in South Korea

In South Korea, Valentine’s Day is considered an important celebration related to love. Interestingly, Korea also celebrates other love-related days, such as Rose Day (May), Wine Day (October), and Hug Day (December).

For those who are single, there is a special tradition called Black Day. Singles gather together to celebrate their single status by eating jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), symbolizing shared solitude.

Valentine’s Day in India

In India, Valentine’s Day is often seen as a romantic moment for proposals. Many men choose this day to propose to their partners by offering red roses.

For married couples, Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and togetherness. Unlike some Asian countries that celebrate Valentine’s over several days or even weeks, India celebrates Valentine’s Day for one day only—February 14.

Valentine’s Day in Malaysia

Malaysia has a unique Valentine’s tradition. Women write their phone numbers on oranges and throw them into nearby rivers. The belief is that their ideal partner will find the orange and contact them.

Oranges are considered symbols of good luck in Malaysia. Interestingly, orange sellers often collect and resell these fruits—sometimes with phone numbers still written on them.

Valentine’s Day in Scotland

In Scotland, Valentine’s Day is often celebrated with a traditional matchmaking game. Names of men and women are written on separate pieces of paper and placed into two hats.

This game is mainly for single people. Names are randomly drawn, and the selected pairs are expected to go on a date that evening. Even if the couples don’t know each other beforehand, the tradition is still seen as fun and exciting.

Valentine’s Day in France

France, famously home to the Eiffel Tower, is known for romance. In the past, France had a unique Valentine’s tradition called “une loterie d’amour” (the lottery of love).

Single men and women gathered in houses facing each other and called out to potential partners. If a man was not interested, he could leave his partner behind. However, this tradition has since been banned, as it is considered outdated and no longer suitable for modern society.

Valentine’s Day in Denmark

In Denmark, Valentine’s Day is a time to express appreciation not only to romantic partners, but also to friends, family members, and neighbors.

Interestingly, Valentine’s Day is a relatively new tradition in Denmark. It is usually celebrated by enjoying special meals, chocolates, quality time, and exchanging handmade cards with loved ones.

Valentine’s Day in Estonia

In Estonia, Valentine’s Day is known as “Sõbrapäev”, or Friendship Day. It is a celebration for couples, singles, friends, and family members alike.

People exchange cards and gifts, even with strangers. Some also wear heart-shaped symbols on their sleeves to add a romantic touch to the celebration.

Valentine’s Day in Spain

Spain celebrates love differently, with a festival of love held on October 9, known as the Festival of Saint Dionysius.

Saint Dionysius is associated with wine, creativity, fertility, and Greek music, and was also known as Bacchus in ancient Roman times. This festival is celebrated across Spain with delicious food, lively parades, and vibrant festivities.

These are some of the most interesting Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world. Each country celebrates love in its own unique way, shaped by culture and history.

If you’ve ever visited another country and encountered a unique Valentine’s tradition, feel free to tag us or share your experience in the comments on Transfez’s Instagram.

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