Saint Valentine

The Origin and History of Saint Valentine

Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th every year. It is a day to display affection. People send cards, called valentines, to their friends, family, and loved ones. Verses on valentines often rhyme and express love and affection. Sometimes valentines contain humorous pictures or puns - but almost all ask, "Be My Valentine."

Valentine's Day falls on the feast day of two different Christian martyrs named Valentine. The customs of Valentine's Day has nothing to do with the lives of the saints. It is believed that the customs come from an ancient Roman festival called Lupercalia which took place every February 15. The festival honored Juno, the Roman goddess of women and marriage - and Pan, the god of nature.

Valentine's day is a great day to celebrate our friends. School children decorate their classrooms with bright red paper hearts. They exchange gifts, candy, flowers or "valentines."

More Fun Valentines Day Activities for kids