We all know Valentine’s Day is a time for chocolate, flowers, fun crafts and a time to share how much we love and appreciate the special people in our lives. But do you know the history of the holiday?
Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, originated as a feast honoring early Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine (stories have up to three historical figures with the Valentine or Valentinus name).
While the history is shrouded in some mystery, many stories claim Saint Valentine was sent to jail for ministering to Christians. While there he healed a child who was also imprisoned, and fell in love with the jailer’s daughter, who would visit him. He wrote her a letter before his execution and signed it “From Your Valentine.” This became the first valentine.
A Holiday of Romance and Love
There are many other stories as to how it transformed into a holiday associated with romance and love. From the beginnings in a jail cell to today’s celebration of love, here are five fun facts to share with your family this Valentine’s Day!
- Valentine’s Day is the second largest holiday where we exchange cards, just behind Christmas. We send 145 million cards each year in celebration of romance and love on Valentine’s Day. Teachers receive the most Valentine’s Day cards annually, followed by children, mothers and wives.
- Nearly 250 million roses are grown every year in preparation for Valentine’s Day, and are typically grown in warmer climates outside of the U.S.
- The first heart-shaped box of chocolates was introduced in 1861. Today, more than 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolates are sold each year, which is equal to 58 million pounds of chocolate!
- In 2022, words of encouragement like “Way 2 Go,” “Crush It,” and “High Five” were added to Sweethearts candy.
- Kids are the true winners when it comes to Valentine’s Day. According to a Today Show survey that polled 1,500 people, only 59% of spouses planned on giving their partners a gift, while 85% of parents planned to give their children something on February 14.
Because teachers, administrators and other school staff members are at the heart of your child’s learning and development, Valentine’s Day is a great time to show them some extra love and share how much you appreciate all that they do to make a positive impact on your student. Check out these ideas for homemade Valentine’s Day cards and crafts for child can make for their teachers!
Niki Taylor is a communications consultant with Niki Taylor Public Relations.
