How Valentine's day is celebrated across the world

While Valentine’s Day is celebrated with cards, candy, flowers and Valentines day gifts all across the world, some particular countries have put their own spin on the holiday.

1. North European Countries

In Finland and Estonia (both countries in Northern Europe), February 14th is less about romance and more about friendship. In fact, these countries celebrate Friend’s Day rather than Valentine’s Day. During this holiday, people exchange cards (be it store bought or handmade) and small gifts with their friends.

Credits: www.homemadecards.com

2. Wales

The country of Wales, which is part of Great Britain, has its own version of Valentine’s Day. On January 25th, the Welsh people celebrate St. Dwynwen’s Day. For centuries, men gave women a ‘love spoon’ as a token of their affection. These wooden spoons were carved by the men and had elaborate designs on the handle. Today, love spoons remain a popular gift on St. Dwynwen’s Day and are even available in chocolate along with other Valentine's day gifts for women.

3. Verona, Italy

Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet featured a love story that was set in Verona, Italy. Today, thousands of Valentine’s Day cards addressed to Juliet arrive in the city around the holiday.

4. Japan

In Japan, it’s a Valentine’s Day tradition for women to give gifts of chocolate to their male friends along with Valentine's day gifts for men. That kindness is returned on March 14th, a holiday known as White Day. That’s when men present small gifts to the women who gave them chocolate a month earlier.

Credits: www.fortune.com

5. Denmark

People who live in Denmark celebrate Valentine’s Day in a similar way to the tradition in Canada. However, they show their affection by giving loved one's hearts that are made from items like pasta, cake, or flowers.

6. Slovenia

Valentine’s Day in the European country of Slovenia is for the birds. Tradition says that birds propose to each other and marry on this day. It’s suggested that those who are looking for love walk barefoot through the frozen fields, so they can watch the birds wed. Slovenians also celebrate a day more like Canadian Valentine’s Day but on March 12th.

Credits: www.audubun.com

7. Germany

In Germany, big, heart-shaped cookies are a popular Valentine’s Day gift. They are often decorated with a few loving words written in frosting. Some cookies also have a ribbon attached to them, so they can be placed around the neck of your sweetheart like a necklace.

Credits: www.nappets.com

8. India

In India Valentine's has exponentially peaked in recent years, however, even the older generation doesn't shy away from celebrating. People send unique gifts to their loved ones all across the globe via Bigsmall.in which is the home to the best and most awesome gifts in the world ;)