Valentine’s Day celebrated on February 14th, became the annual day associated with romantic love in the 14th and 15th centuries when notions of courtly love flourished, apparently by association with the “lovebirds” of early spring. (Wikipedia)
In 18th-century England, it grew into an occasion in which couples expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery, and sending greeting cards (known as “valentines”).
Valentine’s Day symbols that are used today include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid.  Since the 19th century, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards.
In Italy, Saint Valentine’s Keys are given to lovers “as a romantic symbol and an invitation to unlock the giver’s heart”, as well as to children to ward off epilepsy (called Saint Valentine’s Malady).
Cupid, in latin means “passionate desire” and is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction and affection. He is often portrayed as the son of the love goddess Venus and the god of war Mars. He is also known in Latin as Amor (“Love”).Â
In contemporary popular culture, Cupid is shown drawing his bow to inspire romantic love, often as an icon of Valentine’s Day.
Saint Valentine’s Day is not a public holiday in any country, although it is an official feast day in the Anglican Communion and the Lutheran Church.Â
In 1868, the British chocolate company Cadbury created Fancy Boxes â a decorated box of chocolates â in the shape of a heart for Valentine’s Day. Boxes of filled chocolates quickly became associated with the holiday.  In the second half of the 20th century, the practice of exchanging cards was also extended to all manner of Valentine gifts, such as giving .
The U.S. Greeting Card Association estimates that approximately 190 million valentines are sent each year in the US. Half of those valentines are given to family members other than husband or wife, usually to children. When the valentine-exchange cards made in school activities are included the figure goes up to 1 billion, and teachers become the people receiving the most valentines. The average Valentine spending has increased every year in the U.S, from $108 a person in 2010 to $131 in 2013 (the last year calculated),
The rise of Internet popularity at the turn of the millennium is creating new traditions. Millions of people use, every year, digital means of creating and sending Valentine’s Day greeting messages such as e-cards, love coupons or printable greeting cards. Valentine’s Day is considered by some to be a Hallmark holiday due to its commercialization.
