What Is Valentine’s Day? When Is Valentine’s Day? Meaning, Origin & Things You Should Know About the Day of Love

Valentine’s Day on February 14 is a special occasion for people to express love, care, and appreciation for those they cherish.

Join FAHASA in discovering what Valentine’s Day is, when it takes place, its meaning, origin, and essential facts about this romantic holiday-including meaningful insights that not everyone knows.

What Is Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day, also known as the Day of Love, is a celebration that honors love and sincere emotions between people. It is most commonly celebrated on February 14 each year and is widely observed in many countries around the world.

On Valentine’s Day, couples often exchange loving messages, Valentine cards, chocolates, flowers, or enjoy romantic dates together.

Over time, Valentine’s Day has evolved beyond being a holiday only for romantic couples. Today, it is also a day to express affection toward spouses, family members, friends, or even to take time to appreciate oneself.

In 2026, Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, making it especially convenient for planning dates, short trips, or spending quality time with loved ones.

What Does Valentine’s Day Mean?

Valentine’s Day carries deep meaning in celebrating love, connection, and sincere emotions. It is an opportunity to slow down, reflect on relationships, and show appreciation for the important people in our lives.

Love on Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic relationships but also includes:

• Long-lasting love between married couples
• Care and sharing among family members
• Friendship, companionship, and understanding
• Love for oneself

The most important value of Valentine’s Day lies not in the material worth of gifts, but in the sincerity, thoughtfulness, and emotions expressed through words and actions.

What Is the Origin of Valentine’s Day?

The origin of Valentine’s Day is commonly linked to the story of Saint Valentine in ancient Roman history. According to the most popular legend, in the 3rd century, Emperor Claudius II banned young men from marrying, believing that marriage weakened their fighting spirit.

Saint Valentine, a priest, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for couples in love despite the ban. When discovered, he was imprisoned and executed on February 14. In remembrance of his sacrifice, February 14 later became a symbol of love, courage, and loyalty.

Although there are different versions of this story, Valentine’s Day is widely regarded as a holiday rich in emotional and humanistic values.

How Many Valentine’s Days Are There in a Year?

Today, especially in many Asian countries, Valentine’s Day is not limited to just one date. Instead, there are three Valentine-related days, each with its own meaning.

Red Valentine (February 14) is the traditional and most widely celebrated Valentine’s Day worldwide. It is a time for couples to express love through chocolates, flowers, Valentine cards, and romantic gifts.

Many people also choose this day to confess their feelings or mark important milestones in their relationships.

What Is White Valentine (March 14)?

White Valentine originated in Japan and takes place on March 14, exactly one month after Red Valentine. It symbolizes responding to love.

Who Gives Gifts on White Valentine?

The person who received a gift on February 14 gives a gift in return on March 14.

Traditionally in Japan:

• February 14: Women give gifts to men
• March 14: Men return gifts to women

However, today, gender roles are no longer strictly applied:

• Whoever received a gift on February 14 gives one in return on March 14
• This applies to all couples, regardless of gender

What Do People Usually Do on Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day allows everyone to celebrate in a way that suits their relationship status and personal preferences.

Ideas for Couples

Couples often enjoy romantic activities such as dining out, watching movies, taking walks, or going on short trips. Giving gifts with handwritten cards, cooking together, or making handmade items also helps create lasting memories.

Ideas for Busy Married Couples

For busy married couples, Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be elaborate. A cozy dinner at home, a practical gift like a book or personal item, or even a loving message or surprise breakfast can be enough to rekindle affection.

Ideas for Singles

If you’re single, Valentine’s Day is a perfect opportunity to love yourself. Treat yourself to a good book, watch a movie, enjoy coffee, meet friends, or participate in relaxing and self-development activities.

Valentine’s Day Gifts (February 14): Easy Choices for Everyone

Every Valentine’s season, searches for where to buy Valentine’s gifts, affordable Valentine’s gifts, or Valentine’s gifts for students increase significantly. In reality, gifts don’t need to be expensive-what matters most is suitability and sincerity.

Popular Valentine’s gifts include chocolates, fresh or dried flowers, handwritten Valentine cards, romance or self-help books, notebooks, pens, bookmarks, stuffed toys, scented candles, and compact gift combos (book + card + chocolate). These are safe, easy-to-find options suitable for all ages.

For those looking for budget Valentine’s gifts under 200,000 VND or gifts for students, items such as pocket books, cute notebooks, bookmarks, Valentine cards, or mini chocolates are practical and meaningful choices.

Where to Buy Valentine’s Gifts with Many Choices?

If you’re wondering where to buy Valentine’s gifts that are both convenient and diverse, FAHASA is a trusted destination every Valentine’s season.

FAHASA offers a wide range of Valentine’s gift categories-from books and cards to stationery and ready-made gift combos.

Valentine’s gifts at FAHASA are suitable for:

• Lovers and spouses on Valentine’s Day
• Students looking for affordable yet thoughtful gifts
• Busy shoppers who need quick Valentine’s gift combos
• Customers seeking gifts with long-lasting emotional value

With flexible price ranges, FAHASA helps shoppers easily find the right Valentine’s gift-from small, charming items to well-curated gift sets for February 14.

You can shop at FAHASA bookstores nationwide or online via fahasa.com 

Choosing Valentine’s Gifts by Recipient – Matching Needs and Search Intent

Valentine’s Gifts for Men

When deciding what to give a boyfriend or husband on Valentine’s Day, many people prioritize practical gifts that match personal interests. Life skills books, novels, self-development books, or simple accessories are thoughtful and long-lasting options.

Valentine’s Gifts for Women

Valentine’s gifts for girlfriends or wives often focus more on emotions and aesthetics. Gentle books, cute notebooks, scented candles, handwritten cards, or small Valentine’s gift combos are consistently among the most searched items each February 14.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Valentine’s Day

Is Valentine’s Day for men or women?
Valentine’s Day is for everyone. Anyone can take the initiative to express love.

Is it mandatory to give gifts?
No. Gifts are optional-the most important thing is sincerity and care.

Should gifts be given before or on February 14?
Giving gifts on February 14 is most common, but giving them earlier is still meaningful.

What can singles do to avoid feeling lonely on Valentine’s Day?
Treat Valentine’s Day as a day for self-love: read a good book, meet friends, or do something you enjoy. Being single doesn’t mean being lonely.

Where can I buy reliable Valentine’s gifts with many options?
You can buy Valentine’s gifts at FAHASA Bookstores or on fahasa.com 

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day is not only for couples-it is also a meaningful occasion to spread love in many different ways. Whether you are in love, married, or single, Valentine’s Day can still be memorable if you take time to appreciate your emotions and relationships.