Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day History

Valentine's Day is a festival celebrating affection and relationships. Derived from both Christian and Roman traditions, the day marks the exchange of love messages, chocolates, gifts, and frequently concludes with romantic dinners. Emphasized by the representation of Cupid, heart-shaped decorations and the color red, Valentine's Day symbolizes love, affection, and appreciation towards loved ones.

Valentine's Day began as the Feast of Saint Valentine, a Western Christian feast day honoring the early saints named Valentinus. The festival became associated with romantic love in the Middle Ages, leading to its widespread acceptance as Valentine's Day in modern times. In the Netherlands, Valentine's Day is relatively new compared to countries like England and France. It started gaining relevance in the late 20th century, due to American cultural influences. Still, Dutch people have embraced the day wholeheartedly, inundating partners with well-thought-out presents, ensuring they know how loved they are.

People in the Netherlands celebrate Valentine's Day in various meaningful ways. Romantic partners express their love by exchanging gifts, bouquets of flowers, especially roses, and heart-shaped chocolates. Many also write love-filled cards carrying poetic lines to express their passion. A few Dutch cities, such as Amsterdam, offer special Valentine's Day events, including romantic canal cruises and exclusive dinner nights for couples. For some, the day provides the perfect moment to propose marriage to their loved one. Valentine's Day is celebrated February 14th each year.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 Valentine's Day in Netherlands

• Since Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, there is a significantly higher volume of interest in planning a weekendje weg to romantic domestic destinations or nearby European cities compared to weekday observances.
• Many people in the Netherlands opt for red tulips instead of roses, as the red tulip is locally regarded as a symbol of "perfect love" and aligns with the peak of the Dutch bulb season.
• A enduring local legend suggests that couples who share a kiss while crossing the Magere Brug in Amsterdam are destined to stay together forever, making this a central landmark for evening strolls.
• The unique Trouwen Voor 1 Dag event allows couples to experience a non-legally binding wedding ceremony for 24 hours, complete with rings and attire, catering to those who want the "Vegas-style" experience in a Dutch setting.
• Immersive Candlelight Concerts held in historic venues such as the Posthoornkerk or De Waalse Kerk have become a staple for the holiday, with performances like Best of Bridgerton on Strings or tributes to Hans Zimmer drawing significant attention.
• Fans of cinema frequently search for the exact location of the iconic green bench from the movie The Fault in Our Stars, located along the Leidsegracht, to recreate romantic scenes from the film.
• The car-free village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the Venice of the North, sees a spike in interest for private whisper-boat tours through its narrow canals as a quiet alternative to city celebrations.
• Despite the modern commercial shift, the traditional practice of sending a Valentijnskaart anonymously remains a common cultural nuance, often involving personal messages published in a local Valentijnsrubriek.
• Historical sites like De Haar Castle near Utrecht host special evening events that allow visitors to explore the largest medieval fortress in the country under romantic lighting.
• The concept of nuchterheid, or Dutch down-to-earthness, often leads to a preference for "practical romance" such as a Valentijnsontbijt delivered to the home rather than grand, over-the-top public displays.

In the News and Trending in Netherlands for Valentine's Day

Top things to do in Netherlands for Valentine's Day

• Send someone you care for a Valentine's Day card. Take the time to write a small note or love poem inside. Sign it, from your Valentine.
• Remember other important people in your life, such as your parents, grandparents and old friends. Send them a small card or gift to remind them of how much you care.
• Visit Keukenhof Gardens: Although this place opens from late March, if your Valentine’s Day celebration extends into a spring trip, this world's largest flower garden is a must-visit.
• Have a Picnic at the Vondelpark: If the weather allows, couples might enjoy a romantic picnic in the famous Vondelpark in Amsterdam.