Valentine's Day, February 14, is a celebration of love and affection. Its origins include the Roman festival of Lupercalia and a connection to a priest martyred by Emperor Claudius II. The tradition of sending "valentines" began in the 1500s, with the first printed cards in the mid-1800s. Popular gifts include candy and red roses. The holiday is celebrated widely, with significant observance in countries like the U.S., Britain, and the Philippines, where many couples marry on this day. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Valentines-Day