Celebrating Love: The History and Traditions of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, observed every year on February 14th, is a time to celebrate love, romance, and meaningful connections. Whether shared with a significant other, family, or friends, this special day reminds us of the importance of expressing appreciation for those we cherish. While today’s traditions include heartfelt gifts, candlelit dinners, and handwritten notes, the history behind Valentine’s Day is filled with fascinating stories that have shaped how we celebrate love. Have you ever considered the origin of this holiday? In celebration of the holiday, we're sharing the birth of Valentine's Day as we know it.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

The story of Valentine’s Day is one woven with history, romance, and timeless tradition. Though we now associate February 14th with love notes and candlelit dinners, its origins stretch back centuries to ancient Rome. The mid-February festival of Lupercalia was a celebration of renewal, fertility, and the changing of seasons. Over time, these early traditions evolved, intertwining with the story of Saint Valentine—a figure whose name became forever linked with love and devotion.

Legend tells us that Valentine was a compassionate priest who defied the decree of Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying young couples in love. For his defiance, he was imprisoned, and before his execution, he is said to have sent a final note to a young woman, signing it, "From your Valentine." This simple yet profound gesture of love became the foundation for what we now celebrate as Valentine’s Day.

According to Real Simple, the holiday’s romantic connection wasn’t solidified until the Middle Ages, when poet Geoffrey Chaucer referenced it as a day of love in his 1382 poem, "The Parliament of Fowls." By the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day evolved into a day for courtly love, where romantic gestures like handwritten poetry and floral gifts became popular. The tradition continued to flourish, and by the 19th century, exchanging Valentine’s Day cards became widespread—a practice that still thrives today. Whether it be children or adults, all enjoy the celebration of love that is the modern day Valentine's Day.

Modern-Day Valentine’s Traditions

Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with a variety of traditions that honor love and affection. From exchanging gifts and planning romantic dinners to decorating the home with soft candlelight and floral arrangements, the essence of the holiday remains the same: cherishing those we love.

CG Hunter loves celebrating this fan and romantic holiday and we have a few tips to share. For those planning a cozy and elegant evening at home, our Dinner for 2: Valentine's Decor offers inspiration on creating a beautiful tablescape with warm lighting and thoughtfully curated decor. A well-set table with soft candlelight and a stunning centerpiece can turn a simple meal into a romantic experience.

Still searching for the perfect gift to express your love, our Valentine’s Gifts Under $100 features timeless and meaningful gift ideas, from elegant home decor to carefully crafted accents that add warmth to any space. Our faux florals last forever, just like the love you share. Thoughtful gifts help create lasting memories, making Valentine’s Day even more special.

Warm Valentine’s Day Wishes from CG Hunter

At CG Hunter, we believe that love is best celebrated in the details—the intimate moments, the thoughtfully chosen gifts, and the beautifully designed spaces that bring people together. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner at home, surprising a loved one with a heartfelt gift, or simply taking a moment to reflect on the meaningful relationships in your life, we hope your Valentine’s Day is filled with love, joy, and cherished memories.

For more ideas on home decor, entertaining, and seasonal styling, explore our Designer Journal for expert insights and beautifully curated content. You can also browse our CG Hunter Amazon Shop for even more decor and gift inspiration.

We would love to see how you celebrate Valentine’s Day! Share your special moments, festive tablescapes, and heartfelt gifts with us on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Don’t forget to tag us for a chance to be featured and inspire others with your beautiful celebrations.

From all of us at CG Hunter, Happy Valentine’s Day!