Because of a Saint who lived during the 3rd century, February has come to be known as the month of love. As commercialized as you may believe the holiday to be, everyone likes getting chocolate and flowers now and again. In some parts of the world, Valentine’s Day is a massive celebration, while others tend to celebrate love a little differently.
The Philippines
As legend goes, the Roman emperor, Claudius II, forbid young soldiers to marry in the 3rd century as he believed single men made better soldiers. It was Saint Valentine who then secretly married them to their lovers. In this vein, the Filipino government sponsors a gala event every Valentine’s Day during which young couples get wed.
South Korea
No one does Valentine’s Day quite like South Korea. It is traditional for women to give men chocolates on February 14, while men give women non-chocolate candy a month later on March 14, known as White Day. Those who didn’t receive anything on either occasion then “celebrate” Black Day by eating black noodles on April 14 to lament their singleness.
Ireland
Haven’t found the one yet? Those seeking true love make a pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Valentine in Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church in Dublin where one can find the relic of Saint Valentine of Rome. Hopeful pilgrims pray at the shrine and write a prayer request for love in a special book.