Valentine’s Day is celebrated in unique ways all over the world. Although there are traditions that seem to be universal, such as exchanging gifts of love, some countries have unique Valentine’s Day traditions that stand out.
This article will explore some unique Valentine’s Day traditions from around the world that you may be able to incorporate into your own celebration.
Beating the Bamboo in South Korea
In South Korea, the unique tradition of “Beating the Bamboo” is a popular one. On Valentine’s Day, couples beat a bamboo stalk with a stick in order to show how strong their love is for each other. This unique tradition originated from an old Korean folktale about a couple whose love was so strong that it could break a bamboo stalk.
Spooning in the Philippines
In the Philippines, the unique Valentine’s Day tradition of “spooning” is popular. Couples will spend the evening spooning each other while talking and sharing their feelings. This unique tradition is believed to help couples to understand each other better and strengthen their bond.
Candy-Filled Shoes in Denmark
In Denmark, the unique tradition of filling one’s shoes with candy is popular. This unique Valentine’s Day tradition originated from a Danish folktale about a boy who filled his sweetheart’s shoes with candy to show his love for her.
Woolly Bears in Germany
In Germany, a unique Valentine’s Day tradition is to give your loved one a woolly bear. This unique tradition has its origins in German folklore and it is believed that the woolly bear will bring good luck to the couple and bring them closer together.
Writing Love Letters in Japan
Although it has been adopted by many other cultures, writing love letters is a unique tradition of Valentine’s Day in Japan. This unique tradition has its roots in the Heian period (794-1185) when couples would exchange romantic handwritten notes with each other.
Releasing Balloons to Heaven for Loved Ones Who Have Passed Away In Mexico
Although it’s a more somber unique tradition, in Mexico on Valentine’s Day people will release balloons to heaven with messages for loved ones who have passed away. This unique tradition is meant to bring comfort and remembrance to those who have lost someone they love.
Throwing Candies at Single People in Finland
We had to finish this list with a hilarious unique Valentine’s Day tradition from Finland. People there throw candies at single people to remind them that they are still in the running for finding love! But, at least they get candy out of it, so who is really complaining?
Final Thoughts
With so many unique Valentine’s Day traditions around the world, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Whether you choose to incorporate one of these unique traditions into your own celebration or just find them interesting, it is clear that love can take many forms and be celebrated in unique ways all over the globe, so why not try something new this year?