Love is undoubtedly a language spoken universally, but the way it is celebrated on Valentine’s Day varies across cultures. While chocolates, candle-lit dinners, and roses are the go-to for many out there, several countries commemorate the day in their own quirky ways. Whether you’re all for Valentine’s Day or roll your eyes at its heart-shaped overload, here is how various cultures across the world embrace the season of love.

South Korea

Forget February 14th – South Korea takes romance to a whole new level with love days celebrated on the 14th of every month! There’s White Day on March 14th, where men reciprocate gifts received on Valentine’s Day, and Black Day (April 14th), where singles gather to eat jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and commiserate together. It doesn’t matter whether you’re taken or single, everyone can celebrate.

Japan

In this part of the world, Valentine’s Day flips the script and women are the ones who give chocolates to men, with numerous types depending on the relationship. Girl-choco (obligation chocolate) is for coworkers and friends, while honmei-choco (true feelings chocolate) is strictly reserved for that special someone. A month later, on White Day, men return the favour – usually with even grander gifts.

Denmark

Valentine’s Day is all about gaekkebrev – playful love notes with a riddle-like poem written on them – in Denmark. The sender signs only with dots, and if the recipient guesses correctly who sent it, they get an Easter egg later in the year. Instead of roses, Danes also exchange pressed white flowers called snowdrops, which are a delicate, romantic touch.

South Africa

In South African culture, it’s common for women to literally wear their hearts on their sleeves. Inspired by an ancient Roman festival, Lupercalia, some women pin the name of their partner or their love interest on their sleeves, making it a bold and endearing way to declare love. They do this loud and proud in hopes that their crush will see it and respond in the same way.

Wales

Move over, Cupid. Wales has its own patron saint of love, Saint Dwynwen! The Welsh celebrate their own version of Valentine’s Day on January 25th, gifting intricately carved wooden love spoons as a token of affection. The spoons typically showcase symbols such as keys (signifying the key to one’s heart) or wheels (symbolising support in a relationship).

The Philippines

Don’t be surprised if you’re in the Philippines on Valentine’s Day and see weddings happening everywhere – it’s in fact a day for mass weddings! Every year, thousands of couples participate in government-sponsored ceremonies where people tie the knot in large, communal events. It’s a heartwarming spectacle, attesting that love is truly a grand affair on that side of the world.

Italy

The land of passion, Italy, do things differently on Valentine’s Day with a romantic tradition called La Festa degli Innamorati. Historically, single women would wake up before dawn to spot their future husbands, believing the first man they saw would be their true love. Today, Italians mark the day with grand gestures, chocolates, and love padlocks on bridges – because nothing says commitment like a locked-up promise.

Finland & Estonia

In Finland and Estonia, Valentine’s Day is Friendship Day! Called Ystävänpäivä in Finnish, the day is about celebrating all kinds of love, both romantic and platonic. Friends, families, colleagues, and neighbours exchange cards and gifts, making it a feel-good day for everyone regardless of relationship status.

Featured image: Jonathan Borba