Celebrate Valentine's Day focuses on historical and cultural aspects of this holiday and the international traditions, food, and celebrations associated with it.


The celebration of love includes fun facts; a recipe; a map showing the location of all photographs; a resource list of books, videos, and Websites; and a note from and expert consultant, aimed at parents and teachers, which deepens our understanding of the holiday's importance and meaning. The history of he holiday is shrouded in mystery, but we do know that Valtine's Day wasn't always a time for red roses, candy hearts, and frilly greetings cards. Readers learn that some historians trace the feast of the patron saint of love to ancient Greek and Roman festivals that signalled the beginning of spring, which officially began in February in Ancient Rome. We discover how, according to one legend, St. Valentine was a priest imprisoned for defying the emperor. Before being put to death, he sent his first "Valentine" - a letter that he signed "From your Valentine", words still used on cards today. Readers discover a range of international Valentine's Day traditions: making and enhancing cards decorated with hearts, lace, ribbons; giving flowers, candy, balloons, and other gifts to friends and loved ones; attending special patties at school; and baking of cookies and other treats. We learn hoe the holiday's popularity has grown around the world, particularly in Korea and Japan, where office workers give chocolates to their co-workers on Valentine's Day.