Valentine’s Day, celebrated worldwide as a day of love and affection, has seen a myriad of unique traditions throughout history. While some customs have faded into obscurity, they offer a fascinating glimpse into how different cultures have expressed love—and sometimes disdain—on this special day.
Vinegar Valentines: The Victorian Era’s Sharp-Tongued Tradition
In the mid-19th century, not all Valentine’s Day cards were tokens of affection. Enter the “vinegar valentines,” which emerged in the 1840s. These were not sweet declarations but rather biting, often insulting cards sent anonymously to individuals deemed undesirable or to fend off unwelcome suitors. They featured unflattering caricatures and scathing verses targeting various traits, professions, or behaviors. For instance, a card might mock a man’s vanity or a woman’s gossiping nature. Surprisingly, these cards were quite popular, accounting for about half of all valentine sales during their peak. However, their harsh nature sometimes led to serious consequences, including public altercations and even reports of suicides linked to their receipt.
South Korea’s Monthly Celebrations of Love
In South Korea, the 14th of every month is dedicated to celebrating love in various forms, but February and March hold special significance. On Feb. 14, known as Valentine’s Day, women present chocolates to men as a gesture of affection. The tradition does not end there; men reciprocate on March 14, celebrated as “White Day,” by giving chocolates back to those from whom they received them. Following these, April 14, termed “Black Day,” is for singles to come together with friends and share a meal, often featuring black-colored foods like jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), to commiserate or celebrate their single status.
Japan’s Chocolate Hierarchy
Similarly, Japan has its own distinctive Valentine’s Day customs, which began in the mid-20th century. On Feb. 14, women give chocolates to men, but the type of chocolate conveys different meanings. “Honmei-choco” (true love chocolate) is reserved for romantic partners or love interests, often homemade or of high quality to express genuine feelings. “Giri-choco” (obligation chocolate) is given to male colleagues, bosses, or acquaintances without romantic implications, serving as a gesture of goodwill. There is also “tomo-choco” (friend chocolate) exchanged among female friends to celebrate their friendship. Some women even treat themselves to “jibun-choco” (self-chocolate). This elaborate system reflects the nuances of Japanese social interactions and the importance placed on thoughtful gift-giving.
Love Lotteries: France’s Romantic Draw
In France, a tradition known as “une loterie d’amour” (a lottery of love) once took place. Single men and women would gather in houses opposite each other and call out to find their matches. If a man was not satisfied with his match, he could leave her and search for another. Women who were left unmatched would gather afterward, make bonfires of the men’s images, and hurl curses at them. The practice became so raucous that the French government eventually banned it.
These traditions, whether forgotten or still practiced, highlight the diverse ways cultures have chosen to celebrate—or critique—love and relationships on Valentine’s Day.
