“The Day of the Lovers” (El Día de los Enamorados), "The Day of Love and Friendship" (El Día del Amor y la Amistad), or most commonly known as “Saint Valentine’s Day” (Día de San Valentín) is a truly wonderful time to be in Spain. Celebrated on February 14, this day gives a chance for lovers to express affection to each other through gifts, cards, and romantic gestures.
Couples residing in seaside villas and luxury apartments experience Valentine’s Day and its festivities to the fullest. Discover our exclusive luxury villas for sale in Spain, and embrace a lifestyle where every cultural event is celebrated in a unique style.
Love in Spain: The Origin of Valentine’s Day
This day’s origin mostly spins around the mystery of Saint Valentine. According to some legends, Valentine defied the emperor's decree of outlawing marriage for soldiers, and continued to perform marriages in secret for young lovers. However, there is no definitive story, or proof that it was actually the case. It is also believed to have originated from a Roman festival called Lupercalia, which was celebrated to ward off evil spirits through matchmaking.
In any way, it does not matter for our celebration of Valentine’s Day, because it was evolved and commercialized in the 19th and 20th century. José ‘Pepín’ Fernández, founder of the department store Galerías Preciados, introduced El Día de San Valentín in 1948, as a sales strategy. Their campaign motto, “Practice the social elegance of the gift,” established many of the common practices we follow today.
Traditions & Tastes: How Do Spaniards Celebrate?
Although pretty much all of Spain celebrates this day like this, some regions do things a bit differently. Certain Spanish regions blend their own unique versions of Valentine’s Day with distinct traditions and festivities.
While one of the most romantic places in Spain, Catalonia (Barcelona) celebrates Valentine’s Day traditionally, there is also a celebration for La Diada de Sant Jordi (St. George’s Day), otherwise known as The Day of Books and Roses, on April 23. On the other hand, Valencia—renowned for its stunning coastal properties in Spain—celebrates El Dia de Sant Dionís (Saint Dionysius Day) annually on October 9th.
In modern times, this day of love, romance, and friendship is about exchanging heart-shaped gifts, red roses, cards, and romantic dinners. Similarly, on Saint George's Day, couples exchange roses and books as tokens of their affection. Streets transform into vibrant markets filled with stalls selling roses and books, creating a festive and romantic atmosphere. The Catalan saying is "A rose for love and a book forever."
On San Dionisio, celebrated on October 9th, couples exchange "piuleta" and "tronador," marzipan sweets presented in a handkerchief. It serves as a reminder of the day, the gift, and the affection of the giver. Women also receive a Mocadora (Mocaorà) as a sign of love and appreciation. While the traditional Mocadorà remains popular, some bakers and artisans create modern variations with different flavors, designs, and even themes.
Things to Do in Spain for Valentine’s Day
You can start your Valentine's Day in Spain with a romantic city break. In Seville, you might enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride and a flamenco show. In Barcelona, you can stroll through Park Güell and see the Sagrada Familia. You can walk through charming streets and admire unique architecture. You may try outdoor activities such as kayaking, wingfoiling, or even a hot air balloon flight.
In the Canary Islands, you can relax on dreamy beaches and explore volcanic landscapes. You may also swim, snorkel, or go paragliding over the islands. You can also visit Madrid—one of the best places to live in Spain for couples—to explore Retiro Park and have a special dinner. You can stroll through historic parks and visit interesting museums.
In Andalucía, you discover history and romance in every corner. You can visit famous monuments like the Alhambra or the Giralda and wander through old streets. You may taste traditional tapas and enjoy regional dishes. You can also add a fun twist to your day with different experiences by trying a hot air balloon ride over Catalonia or enjoying wine tasting in Rioja. Each activity is a chance for you to share a joyful moment with your partner.
Many people dream of moving to Spain as a couple or buy a house in Spain, just to be a part of these cultural events. Living in Spain means you get to connect with their history, and have a serene lifestyle along with luxury amenities; not to mention the overlapping of Carnival Season and Valentine’s Day. This will give you plenty of options to celebrate the day with your loved one in Canary Islands, Cádiz, and Sitges, featuring parades, fireworks, and processions. Are you looking to find the best cities in Spain to buy a home? Contact us today to check out our real estate in Spain for couples!
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