The French and Valentine's Day

By Manon

Whether you're a big romantic or find this holiday a little too commercial, Valentine's Day leaves no one indifferent. But what does it really mean to the French? How do they celebrate it? And why does it provoke so much debate? In this episode, we'll explore the origins, traditions and different perceptions of Valentine's Day in France.

Valentine’s Day: A Day to Celebrate Love

In France, Valentine’s Day is primarily an occasion to celebrate love. Couples take the opportunity to reaffirm their feelings, away from the sometimes overwhelming daily routine. A romantic evening, a bouquet of flowers, or a sweet note is often enough to mark the occasion. For many, it’s the perfect day to rekindle the flame and focus on their relationship.

Romantic dinners are particularly popular. Restaurants compete to create special menus, often adorned with decorations and dim lighting. Others opt for romantic getaways, whether it’s a weekend in Paris, the capital of love, or a peaceful retreat in Provence. Beyond grand celebrations, some prefer simplicity: a walk hand in hand, a handwritten card, or a personalized gift.

The Origins of a Universal Celebration

Valentine’s Day has a history that dates back to antiquity. The Romans celebrated the Lupercalia, pagan festivals dedicated to fertility and renewal. Later, in the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church associated February 14 with Saint Valentine, a martyr priest who reportedly defied Emperor Claudius II’s bans by secretly marrying couples. Since then, he has become the patron saint of lovers.

Over time, Valentine’s Day crossed borders and absorbed local traditions. In France, the romanticism of this celebration was amplified during the medieval era, when troubadours and poets celebrated courtly love. The belief that birds choose their mate during this time of year also helped strengthen the link between February 14 and love.

How Do the French Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

In France, Valentine’s Day is often synonymous with French-style romance. Here are a few traditions and trends:

Flowers: Red roses remain a must-have for lovers. They symbolize passion.
Romantic dinners: Restaurants are fully booked on this day, offering special menus for the occasion.
Personalized gifts: Jewelry, chocolates, or handwritten letters – the French love meaningful gestures.
Romantic getaways: A weekend in Paris or Provence is a classic way to celebrate love.

A Celebration That Divides the French

While Valentine’s Day inspires dreams for some, it also attracts its share of criticism. Many denounce its excessively commercial nature. Storefronts overflow with red hearts, and advertisements encourage ever more consumption: chocolates, flowers, jewelry, or luxury getaways. Some see it as a mercantile takeover of love, where genuine feelings are overshadowed by the desire for profit.

For others, Valentine’s Day can be a source of stress. Couples sometimes feel obliged to do something extraordinary, fearing they won’t meet their partner’s or society’s expectations. This pressure can turn a supposedly joyful day into a real challenge.

And what about singles? For them, Valentine’s Day can feel exclusionary, a day that constantly reminds them that romantic love is the focus. Some choose to ignore it, while others turn the celebration into a moment to honor friendship or self-love.

An Evolving Celebration

In recent years, the way the French approach Valentine’s Day has evolved. Younger generations, in particular, are redefining this celebration. Rather than conforming to traditional expectations, many prefer simple, sincere gestures or shared moments without grand staging. The trend of celebrating love in all its forms – romantic, friendly, or even familial – is also on the rise.

Social media plays an important role in this evolution. It provides a platform to share romantic moments or express opinions about this holiday. Some see it as a way to highlight the love in their lives, while others critique the clichés perpetuated by this day.