A Guide to How Valentine’s Day is Celebrated in South America
Valentine’s Day, known as Día de San Valentín or Día del Amor y la Amistad (Day of Love and Friendship), is celebrated with great enthusiasm across South America. While the holiday shares some similarities with traditions in other parts of the world, each country in the region adds its own unique cultural twist. Here’s a guide to how Valentine’s Day is celebrated in South America.
1. Focus on Love and Friendship
In many South American countries, Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic love but also about celebrating friendships. In Colombia, for example, the holiday is called Día del Amor y la Amistad and is celebrated in September rather than February. Friends exchange gifts, cards, and small tokens of appreciation, making it a more inclusive celebration.
2. Romantic Gestures and Gifts
Like in other parts of the world, romantic gestures are a big part of Valentine’s Day in South America. Couples exchange gifts such as flowers (especially red roses), chocolates, and jewelry. Dining out at a romantic restaurant or cooking a special meal at home is also a popular way to celebrate.
In Brazil, Dia dos Namorados (Lovers’ Day) is celebrated on June 12, the day before Saint Anthony’s Day, the patron saint of marriage. Couples exchange gifts, and cities are often decorated with festive lights and decorations.
3. Music and Dance
Music and dance play a central role in South American Valentine’s Day celebrations. In countries like Argentina and Brazil, couples might enjoy a night of tango or samba dancing. Live music performances, often featuring romantic ballads, are common in restaurants and public spaces.
4. Unique Traditions
Each country in South America has its own unique Valentine’s Day traditions:
- Colombia: As mentioned, Colombia celebrates Día del Amor y la Amistad in September. A popular tradition is the Amigo Secreto (Secret Friend), where friends draw names and exchange gifts anonymously, similar to a Secret Santa.
- Peru: In Peru, Valentine’s Day is celebrated with serenatas (serenades). Musicians are hired to play romantic songs outside a loved one’s window, often in the early hours of the morning.
- Chile: Chileans celebrate with Día de los Enamorados (Day of the Lovers). Many couples take romantic trips to the beach or countryside to enjoy the summer weather (February is summer in the Southern Hemisphere).
5. Public Celebrations and Festivals
In many South American cities, Valentine’s Day is marked by public celebrations and festivals. Parks and plazas are often decorated with heart-shaped balloons and flowers, and couples gather to enjoy live music, food stalls, and fireworks.
In Brazil, Dia dos Namorados is a major commercial holiday, with shopping malls and stores offering special promotions and discounts. The streets are often filled with vendors selling flowers, chocolates, and romantic gifts.
6. Family Involvement
In some South American cultures, Valentine’s Day is a family affair. Parents may give small gifts to their children, and families might gather for a special meal to celebrate love in all its forms.
7. Creative Expressions of Love
South Americans are known for their creativity when it comes to expressing love. Handwritten love letters, personalized gifts, and handmade crafts are common. Social media also plays a role, with couples sharing heartfelt messages and photos online.
8. Regional Foods and Treats
Food is an important part of Valentine’s Day celebrations in South America. Couples might enjoy traditional dishes or indulge in sweet treats like alfajores (cookie sandwiches filled with dulce de leche) in Argentina or brigadeiros (chocolate truffles) in Brazil. Romantic dinners often feature local wines or cocktails.
Valentine’s Day in South America is a vibrant and heartfelt celebration of love and friendship. Whether it’s through music, dance, unique traditions, or thoughtful gifts, the holiday reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity and passion for life. If you ever find yourself in South America during Valentine’s Day (or its local equivalent), you’re sure to be swept up in the warmth and joy of the celebrations.
