14 February
Valentine’s Day / Captain Cook’s Death Day
The Feast of St Valentine, or Valentine’s Day, originated as a Christian Feast day celebrating Saint Valentine, who was persecuted and martyred by the Roman Empire. It has since become a significant cultural event in many countries, even though it is not associated with any national holidays. According to early tradition, Saint Valentine performed weddings for Christian soldiers who were forbidden to marry. The day has become associated with romantic love – especially in the 14th and 15th centuries, with the tradition of courtly love currently popular. Nowadays, it is a day for couples to celebrate their relationships with gifts and celebrations between them.
This date is also popular among many Indigenous people, who celebrate it as Captain Cook’s death day.