Unveiling Valentine's Day: 10 surprising facts for parents and teens
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In its modern version, Valentine's Day is a holiday filled with love, chocolates, roses, and heartfelt messages that’s celebrated worldwide. But how much do you really know about this day dedicated to love? Check out these fun and surprising Valentine's Day facts that both parents and teens can enjoy.
1. The origins of Valentine's Day
The exact origination of Valentine’s Day remains up for debate. But some of its roots date back to ancient Rome and the Roman festival of Lupercalia, which welcomed the arrival of spring. The festival was later Christianized and morphed into St. Valentine’s Day later still. The name Valentine itself has its own long history with ties to the ancient Romans.
2. The Valentine's Day card tradition
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Did you know that Valentine's Day is the second most popular holiday for sending cards after Christmas? It's estimated that about 145 million Valentine's Day cards are exchanged each year in the U.S.!
3. The heart as a symbol of love
The heart symbol we use today to represent love isn't anatomically accurate. The origin of the traditional Valentine shape is also uncertain, but some believe it was inspired by the shape of vine leaves or possibly different parts of the human body.
4. Roses are red…and popular!
Red roses are the most popular flowers to give on Valentine's Day. They are considered the symbol of love because red is so often associated with strong romantic feelings.
5. Sweet treats
About 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolate are sold for Valentine's Day each year. So if you're indulging in some chocolatey treats, you're certainly not alone!
6. Valentine's Day isn't just for couples
In Finland and Estonia, Valentine's Day is celebrated by romantic partners and also by friends, with cards and gifts exchanged between them. That’s true in the U.S., too, especially among school-age children.
7. Cupid's family
In Roman mythology, Cupid is known as the god of love, desire, and affection. He was believed to be the son of Venus (goddess of love) and Mars (god of war).
8. Valentine's Day spending
In 2023, consumers in the U.S. alone were estimated to spend nearly $26 billion on Valentine's Day gifts, with an average consumer planning to shell out an average of $193.
9. Galentine's Day
Coined by the beloved TV show "Parks and Recreation," Galentine's Day is celebrated on February 13th as a day to celebrate friendship between women.
10. Love locks
In some countries, couples attach engraved padlocks to bridges or fences as a symbol of their everlasting love. However, this tradition has been banned in some places due to the combined weight damaging structures.
Who knew there were so many interesting facts about Valentine's Day? These Valentine's Day facts offer a glimpse into the history and traditions of this well-loved holiday. So whether you're celebrating with friends, family, or a significant other, remember the rich history that accompanies those heartfelt messages and sweet treats. Happy Valentine's Day!
For more interesting facts and helpful advice for kids, parents, and families, visit our Greenlight Learning Center.
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