The custom of celebrating Valentine's Day came to us in the 90s from the West. Some people love this day and plan a romantic time with their loved one in advance, while others do not like this holiday and see it only as commercial. A certain alternative to Valentine's Day has become the increasingly popular Singles' Day, which aims to appreciate people who are not in relationships, as well as an independent lifestyle. It is no coincidence that its date falls on February 15, right after Valentine's Day. Nevertheless, regardless of our personal situation, it is worth taking advantage of these opportunities to have a good time and please yourself and your loved ones.

When is Valentine's Day and why do we celebrate it?

Valentine's Day, also known as the Feast of Lovers, always falls on February 14. Although the custom of celebrating this day in a grand manner is associated mainly with America, the history of Valentine's Day dates back to the medieval Roman Empire. It was there that Saint Valentine, once a doctor and bishop, and currently the patron saint of lovers, lived in the 3rd century. The saint became famous for secretly marrying young couples, despite the tsar's ban on marriage for men aged 18-37. For these crimes, Valentine was thrown into prison, and there he fell in love with the blind daughter of his jailer. As the legend goes, the girl regained her sight under the influence of his love. Ultimately, Valentine was sentenced to martyrdom by the emperor, but just before his execution he wrote a letter to his beloved - the first Valentine. The date of the execution, which was February 14, has been recognized in the Catholic Church as Saint Valentine's Day since the end of the 5th century.

It is also worth mentioning that currently the largest place of worship of the patron saint of lovers is his basilica in Terni, Italy, where the saint's relics are also located. Every year on Valentine's Day, engaged couples come to the basilica to vow their lifelong love there. On the other hand, Chełmno is considered the Polish city of lovers, where the local cathedral also houses the relics of St. Valentine. Moreover, for many years the city has been organizing for its residents and numerous guests "Chełmno Valentines" - great celebrations of this holiday combined with performances by excellent artists.

What gift for Valentine's Day?

The most traditional Valentine's Day gifts include Valentine's Day cards. They currently have a diverse nature. They are an expression of sympathy, gratitude and memory of a loved one, and not necessarily just a declaration of love. That is why Valentine's Day cards and notes can be sent not only to a loved one, but also to friends, acquaintances, co-workers or neighbors.

Apart from cards, the most popular Valentine's Day gifts include flowers and all kinds of sweets – chocolates and => sweet pastries. It is also worth trying a more personalized gift for her or him. For example, it can be jewelry with an engraved dedication, a mug or cup with a print, or a photo book with photos of shared moments.

How to spend Valentine's Day?

How to celebrate Valentine's Day? Of course, it's best to do it in a romantic style, but also in accordance with the preferences of both partners. Each couple certainly has their preferred ways of spending free time together or places they like to visit. So plan an attraction for this day that will give you both the greatest pleasure - for example, going dancing, to the cinema, to a climbing wall or for a relaxing massage. Or maybe you are one of those people who value the comfort of home more? Celebrating Valentine's Day at home is an equally interesting idea! You can organize a romantic candlelight dinner, watch your favorite movie, play board games or dance. Whatever you come up with for Valentine's Day - do it together!

When is Singles Day and who invented it?

Singles Day has a relatively short tradition, but is becoming increasingly popular. Interestingly, there are two official dates for its celebration around the world - November 11 and February 15. The first of these is closely related to the originators of Singles Day. It is widely believed that they were four Chinese students. The young men wondered together how to meet their future wife and as a result came to the conclusion that their current single status should also be properly celebrated. And so in 1993, Singles Day was initiated, the date of which the students set for November 11 (11.11). The double eleven in the date of the holiday has a deeper meaning due to the four ones, which refer to being single. Additionally, in Chinese internet slang, the number one, resembling a stick, is considered to refer to a single man without a wife.

In Europe and America, Singles Day is celebrated on February 15, right after Valentine's Day. Thanks to this, people who are not in relationships can feel more appreciated and celebrate on an equal basis with couples in love. What's more, February 15 is the commemoration of St. Faustine in the Catholic Church, considered the patron saint of lonely hearts. So we have Valentine's Day and Faustines.

How to spend Singles Day?

At first glance, Singles Day may seem unattractive and not very joyful, because it concerns people who have not found their other half. However, this is a false belief! Singles Day gives us the opportunity to appreciate ourselves more, focus on our interests and do something special just for ourselves. That is why it is worth getting as much joy from this holiday as possible! 

So what is the best way to spend Singles Day? Above all, enjoy life! Do what makes you happy – a visit to the SPA, a delicious cake at your favorite => pastry shop, shopping or meeting friends. You can also decide on something more spectacular that you have been thinking about for a long time, such as a parachute jump, a diving course or a flight in a tunnel. Being single often makes it easier to pursue your passions and dreams, so take advantage of this time!