Whether we like it or not, Valentine’s Day is on its way! And with it: A slew of goodies, flowers, cards, and chocolates. But did you know that St. Valentine was once associated with the advent of spring? It’s true. Valentine’s Day (as we know it today) originated in the UK. However, they historically had several regional traditions which pegged St. Valentine as a saint of spring and a saint of good health (hooray!). Valentine’s Day was said to be a day when the plants and flowers would start to grow. It was even celebrated as a day when the first agricultural work of the year would commence. Maybe there’s something to it—this whole notion of an early spring. After all, Groundhog Day is February 2nd. If we’re lucky, the groundhog will follow Valentine’s lead and predict an early spring. Here’s hoping!
