The History and Evolution of Valentine's Day
You may celebrate Valentine’s Day every year, but do you know the history behind it? Read on to learn how it began, the evolution it has undergone over the years and some fun facts behind this romantic holiday!
History of Valentine’s Day
Many people see Valentine’s Day as a day to show the one you love most how much they mean to you. However, Valentine’s Day actually began as a day to celebrate Saint Valentinus, a man who performed weddings for soldiers who weren’t allowed to get married. Valentinus was imprisoned because of this act and was executed. Before his execution date, he wrote a letter to his daughter and signed it “From Your Valentine.” Valentinus was buried on February 14th, which is now the date we know as Valentine’s Day.
It may be hard to believe, but Valentine’s Day wasn’t associated with love until the middle ages. By the 1700s, people began to transform the holiday into how we view it today; lovers began to show their affection with gifts of flowers, candy and cards.
Valentine’s Day Fun Facts
We all know that flowers, candy and cards are three of the top things that are purchased to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but you may not realize how many of each are sold every year:
- 50 million roses are given on Valentine’s Day around the world each year and 15 percent of women send themselves flowers on this romantic holiday.
- Necco Sweethearts, otherwise known as Conversation Hearts, were invented back in 1866. Nowadays, Necco produces more than eight billion Conversation Hearts per year, which translates to 100,000 pounds per day!
- Women buy approximately 85 percent of Valentine’s Day cards each year, and there are almost a billion exchanged each year (and that’s only in the United States).
- You can’t forget about your furry friends on Valentine’s Day! More than nine billion Americans buy gifts for their dogs on this yearly holiday.
- The Valentine’s Day mascot, Cupid, was the son of Venus, who was the God of beauty and love.
- It may not be directly related to the romantic holiday, but did you know that Penicillin was introduced on February 14th, 1929?
Spend Your Valentine’s Day at The Crimson Room
Looking for a date night location to take your loved one this Valentine’s Day? The Crimson Room is the perfect place! Whether you want to grab a drink, a small bite or dessert before or after your night on the town, we’re sure our unique cocktail bar will be your go-to destination. We are proud to announce that The Bashers, a Jazz Funk Trio, will be joining us for our My Funky Valentine event on February 14th. There will be two separate performances, one from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and one from 9:00 p.m. to 11 p.m. A $40 ticket for two gets you your own table that includes a rose and chocolate covered strawberries. Seating is limited, so get your tickets today! We look forward to making your Valentine’s Day one to remember!