5 Popular Valentine's Day Traditions in Latin America

By Neil P. First Posted: Jan 18, 2021 07:37 AM EST

Valentine's Day is fast approaching and as early as now, many people are thinking about gifts they plan to give and perfect dating places. Learn how people in Latin America celebrate this day.

(Photo : Unsplash/Jonathan Borba)

Valentine's Day in Latin America

Valentine's Day is one of the most anticipated celebrations across the globe. Though the way how Valentine's Day is celebrated varies from one country to the other, there is one thing that is common to everyone. It is a day of giving perfect gifts and looking for a dating place for our loved ones.

Everyone wants this day to be memorable and unforgettable. Maybe this time, many stores are already flooded with inquiries about the gifts they offer for Valentine's Day, and many people have already called and reserved a place for Feb.14.

Here are some of the Valentine's Day celebrations in Latin America that you should know, according to a published article in Latinitas:

1. El Dia Del Amor y la Amistad

Most countries across the globe celebrate Valentine's Day for a romantic relationship. But this is not the case in some Latin countries like Mexico and Ecuador.

These two countries celebrate Valentine's Day not only for having a romantic relationship but also to share love with family and friends. They refer Feb.14 as the day of love and friendship.

2. Old Love Parade

As mentioned, the celebration of Valentine's Day varies from one country to the other. Guatemala City, Guatemala has a unique way of celebrating Valentine's Day.

During this day, they typically gather and have a large parade and called this as Old Love Parade. The city features senior citizens riding festive floats through the streets and wearing colorful costumes to celebrate love.

3. Peruvian Orchids

Typically, roses are flowers associated when people talked about Valentine's Day. However, Peruvians exchange orchids, a native flower, during this day instead of roses.

Additionally, this is also a public holiday in Peru since Carnaval also takes place during the holiday of love. Peruvians celebrate this day with large weddings and festivals.

4. Angelito o Amigo Secreto

Valentine's Day is a day to share love. This also means that this is not only for young adults and adults but also for children. The Dominican Republic and El Salvador have a unique way of celebrating Valentine's Day.

They call this Angelito or Amigo Secreto or Little Angel and the latter to Secret Friend. This is the day that children exchange gifts which is similar to Secret Santa.

5. Valentine's Day in September

It has been part of the tradition of most countries to celebrate Valentine's Day every February 14 but Colombia and Bolivia celebrate this romantic day every September.

Even though their activities are the same as with other countries like giving of gifts, flowers, and large celebrations, however, Colombia celebrates on September 20 and Bolivia celebrates the following day.

Due to the global pandemic, some activities in Latin America during Valentine's Day might have some changes. Some might choose to have a virtual celebration to avoid social gatherings.

Despite this, if you are planning to have a date remember always to follow COVID-19 protocols to avoid getting infected with the virus.