Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Valentine’s Day Or Not
--
Whether you hate it or love it, Valentine’s Day is here to stay
Did you know that 5.6 million people choose to become engaged on February 14th? Next to Christmas, this is the most popular day for such romantic commitments.
Two U.S. territories became U.S. states on Valentine’s Day. In 1859, Oregon, became the 33rd State. Interestingly enough, it took the residents of Oregon a full month to hear the news. It was disseminated by telegraph, stagecoach, and steamship. Fifty-three years later Arizona followed as the 48th state.
Americans it turns out, are a pretty apathetic group when it comes to Valentine’s Day. February 14th rates low on the list of favorite holidays. However, there is still a lot of cash that changes hands in the form of cards, flowers, chocolates and jewelry.
In some countries, women are buying the chocolates. In Japan, women give the gifts. In the U.S., men spend twice as much as women on this romantic holiday.
The popularity of Valentine’s Day has soared during the pandemic. Valentine’s jewelry sales were up by 15%.
Billions of dollars are spent on Valentine’s Day. In 2021 the number was in fact $21.8 billion. In 2020 that amount was 27.4 billion.
More cards are given on Valentine’s Day than any other holiday. Mass produced Valentine’s cards began in 1913.
The Victorians delighted in sending nasty notes that criticized anyone from family members to unwanted partners. These were of course anonymous. They were named at the time “vinegar valentines.”
Here’s a pretty cool reception
At least you’ll say there is no deception
It says as plain as it can say
Old fellow you’d best stop away
In 1861 the first heart shaped boxes of chocolates were introduced. Cadbury was the innovative company. Cadbury wanted the recipient of the sweets to have a reusable decorative box.
1797 was the date of the oldest printed Valentine’s Day card. It was decorated with cupids and hearts and it read:
Since on this very Happy day
All Nature’s full of Love and Play
Yet harmless still if my design,
Tis but to be your Valentine.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
