The History of Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day has evolved over time from a pagan festival to a day of romance. It's celebrated on February 14th and is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr. 

Across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. The holiday has changed over time and can mean different things to different people. It's a day to express affection for loved ones, friends, family, and more. It's associated with the god of love, Cupid, who was the son of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Nowadays, Valentine's Day parties and outings are no longer just for couples. The well known Galentine's Day celebration is a day for women to celebrate with their girlfriends and have food and drinks. 

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, deified Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret.