SOUTH COUNTY
President ’ s
COLUMN
Valentine ’ s Day Celebrations Around the World
Shrine of St . Valentine , Dublin , Ireland by Jacqulyn Mack-Majka , Esq . Mack-Majka Law Firm Chartered , Inc .
February always brings thoughts of love and candlelit dinners with a loved one . In some other parts of the world , many cultures have their own unique twists on Valentine ’ s Day traditions .
Argentina : Argentinians set aside a week in July as “ Sweetness Week ,” when lovers and friends exchange candies , kisses , and good cheer .
Brazil : Brazil does not celebrate Valentine ’ s Day on February 14 , because it is too close to the Carnival celebration . June 12 is “ Lovers ’ day ”, where couples exchange gifts , cards , and candy . On this day , some single women perform rituals to get in the good graces of Saint Anthony , the patron saint of marriage whose day is June 13 .
Chile : Chileans let their inner romantics out on February 14 , and for a week or so on either side , as they decorate shops , malls , and streets with balloons and flowers .
Colombia and Guatemala : In these South and Central American countries , Valentine ’ s Day is called the Day of Love and Friendship , and is much less romantic . Friends give anonymous gifts , and Guatemala City residents partake in a parade for senior citizens while wearing bright colors and traditional Maya garb .
Denmark and Norway : These two Scandinavian countries put a twist on the holiday , as friends and lovers exchange all manner of “ lover ’ s cards .” Some give handmade cards with pressed white flowers , called snowdrops ; others offer more traditional cards .
England : Valentine ’ s Day traditions in England , have one common occurrence the singing of special songs by children , for which they are rewarded with candy , fruit , or money .
Finland and Estonia : More platonic love is on display here , as Finland and Estonia celebrate Friends Day on February 14 . People give cards to loved ones , friends , and neighbors , and the day is a popular engagement date .
France : France is a lover ’ s paradise , and couples flock here for Valentine ’ s Day every year . French couples exchange letters and cards on the day , a tradition which was actually started in France in the 15th century , when the imprisoned Duke of Orleans wrote a poem to his lover and called her “ my valentine .”
Ghana : Ghanaians know the way to our heart : chocolate ! February 14 is National Chocolate Day , an initiative introduced by the government in
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