Valentine’s Day

The feast of Saint Valentine is observed on 14 February—a day set aside by the Roman Catholic Church to honor two martyred saints: Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Termi. Some saints’ days have long-standing connections with food, such as Saint Patrick’s Day with corned beef and cabbage. There are, however, no historic or modern food associations with Saint Valentine. Over time “Saint” was dropped from Saint Valentine’s Day, and the feast evolved into a day on which gifts are given to demonstrate love and affection.