Valentine's Day in Latin America

Arnaly Arriaga

Valentine's Day in Spanish speaking countries, also known as Saint Valentine's Day or "Día de San Valentín", is celebrated annually on February 14th and is a day to celebrate love, "el amor" and affection mostly between intimate partners. While the celebration of Valentine's Day originated in Europe, it has since spread to different parts of the world, including Latin America.

It is correct that in Latin America, Valentine's Day is primarily focused on romantic love between partners, where in North America, the celebration often includes family and friends. This focus on romantic love is reflected in the various ways that Valentine's Day is celebrated in Latin America, such as through gift-giving, romantic dinners, and love letters.
¡Feliz día de San Valentín!

In Latin America, couples often go to great lengths to express their love and affection for each other on Valentine's Day. This includes creating elaborate surprises, planning romantic getaways, and indulging in luxurious experiences. No wonder why this day is one of the biggest for any restaurant or flower shop! 

In contrast, in North America, the celebration of Valentine's Day often involves sending cards, flowers, or gifts to loved ones, regardless of whether they are romantic partners or not.

This difference in focus between romantic love and more inclusive celebrations highlights the unique cultural traditions and perspectives surrounding Valentine's Day in Latin America and North America. Regardless of the approach, the celebration of love and affection remains at the core of Valentine's Day in both regions.

Do we have different celebrations?

In Latin America, Valentine's Day is widely celebrated and has its own unique cultural traditions. Here are some of the most popular ways that Valentine's Day is celebrated in Latin America:
1. Gift-Giving: Gift-giving is one of the most popular ways that Valentine's Day is celebrated in Latin America. People exchange gifts such as chocolates, flowers, jewelry, and even stuffed animals as a symbol of their love and affection.
2. Romantic Dinners: Many couples in Latin America enjoy romantic dinners on Valentine's Day. This is a time to spend quality time together and enjoy delicious food, wine, and other treats.
3. Love Letters: Writing love letters is another popular tradition in Latin America on Valentine's Day. People write letters to their loved ones expressing their feelings and appreciation for the relationship.
4. Outdoor Activities: In some countries in Latin America, couples engage in outdoor activities such as picnics, hikes, or beach trips on Valentine's Day. These activities provide a chance for couples to enjoy each other's company in a scenic and romantic setting.
5. Festivals and Celebrations: In some cities in Latin America, Valentine's Day is celebrated with festivals and street parties. People come together to dance, sing, and enjoy live entertainment in celebration of love.



"In some Latin American countries, it is said that if a man receives a yellow flower on Valentine's Day, he is in for a year of bad luck."

What happened to the passion? 

In Latin America, it is not uncommon for men to go above and beyond to show their love and affection on Valentine's Day. This can range from singing serenades in the streets to writing love poems that would make even the greatest poets envious.
In some Latin American countries, it is said that if a man receives a yellow flower on Valentine's Day, he is in for a year of bad luck. So, if you're a man in Latin America, make sure you pay close attention to the color of the flowers you receive on this special day!
In some Latin American cultures, it is traditional for couples to exchange "promises" or "pinky-swears" on Valentine's Day. So, if you see couples in Latin America linking their little fingers, you know they're in it for the long haul!
While romantic dinners are a staple of Valentine's Day celebrations in Latin America, some couples take it to the next level by cooking elaborate meals for each other at home. Just be prepared for a lot of "I burned the dinner" jokes.
To make it short, Valentine's Day in Latin America is a time for couples to celebrate their love in unique and sometimes over-the-top ways. Whether it's through serenades, poems, promises, or burnt dinners, the focus is always on love and affection, and of course, having a good laugh along the way. Remember this and you will be able to confidently say:

¡Feliz Día de San Valentín!

Created with