Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is celebrated annually on February 14 and it is originated from a Western Christian feast day honoring saints named Valentinus. Valentine’s Day is perceived as a celebration of romance and romantic love in many countries around the world. Many people in the United States send cards, give gifts/flowers, or arrange meals in restaurant to celebrate their love. Valentine’s Day is not a public holiday so the government offices, schools, and stores are open as usual.
Also, let us introduce you of an interesting culture–have you heard about a “White Day,” which takes place exactly one month after Valentine’s Day, on March 14th? In the countries where people celebrate White Day, the biggest difference between Valentine’s Day and White Day is about WHO gives the presents. On White Day, men are expected to give white chocolates, candies, and marshmallows to women as an expression of love. On the other hand, on Valentine’s Day, women are supposed to give chocolates to men. This event is widely celebrated both in Japan and South Korea, and it is sometimes observed in Vietnam and China.
Related links:
- https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/us/valentine-day
- http://www.stvalentinesday.org/valentines-day-in-us.html
- https://www.diffen.com/difference/Valentine%27s_Day_vs_White_Day
- http://us.jnto.go.jp/blog/valentines-day-white-day-in-japan/
- https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/valentines-day-south-korea/index.html
- https://nihononthego.tumblr.com/post/79512804458/white-day-%E3%83%9B%E3%83%AF%E3%82%A4%E3%83%88%E3%83%87%E3%83%BC
