Abby Dreyer | Staff Writer
Romance, bouquets of roses, the smell of sweets in the air…that’s right Warriors, it’s that time of year again. Whether you're gearing up for a night to remember, still recovering from a breakup, or are sick of hearing about it, there’s no denying the presence of this upcoming holiday. So, grab your loved one (or a bag of your favorite candy, we won’t judge), sit back, and relax, as we reflect upon Valentine’s Day.
While Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated today, the origins of this popular holiday are inconclusive. During the era during which Saint Valentine, the individual whom the tradition is partially based upon, was alive, there were three different individuals of the same name registered with the Catholic Church. Because of this, it is still unknown exactly which one of them, or, potentially, which ones, the legend is based upon.
As one of the most popular stories goes, Saint Valentine was jailed for standing up to an injustice (the specifics of which are still disputed), which eventually led to him being sentenced to death. However, prior to his execution, it is theorized that he sent a letter to his lover, signed “from your Valentine”. Thus, the basis for this romantic holiday was formed.
Despite its origins dating back to the third century, Valentine’s Day didn’t become truly popular until much later in history. In the case of the US, it wasn’t until the mid 1800’s that this holiday really kicked off. During this period of time, the day became highly marketed, in particular, due to Esther Howland who created the first business that produced Valentine’s Day cards on a mass scale.
This year, Americans are projected to spend over $27 billion on the holiday. Although more people purchase flowers for Valentine’s Day than any other holiday, the most popular purchase for the special day is actually candy. However, this day of love is far more than simply a consumer field day. Around six million people get engaged annually on Valentine's Day.
If you’re not celebrating this holiday with a loved one, however, don’t fret. In recent years more and more Valentine’s Day alternatives have been emerging, including: Galentine's day, Palatine’s Day, Singles Awareness Day, and International Quirkyalone Day (yes, those are all real). These celebrations offer a chance to show appreciation for the different kinds of love in one’s life from platonic love to self-love.
So, whether you’re purchasing the bouquet for a special someone, or preparing for a fun night out with the girls, all of us here at the Lantern wish you a very happy holiday. Whatever way your holiday goes, just don’t go breaking our hearts, and remember to check back in regularly for more articles.
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