From the Tropics with Love, Valentine’s Day Traditions in Central America
Valentine's Day has a few origin stories, one as a pagan festival involving sacrifices in honor of the god of fertility, a martyr named Valentine, and another as a Roman lottery to find a partner. Over time, the celebration has evolved through folk traditions, becoming a highly commercialized celebration of romance. It is now universally associated with extravagant bouquets of roses, chocolates, and greeting cards. Nevertheless, various countries in Central America maintain unique and unconventional traditions that unfold annually on February 14th.
In Costa Rica, Valentine’s Day is more than just a celebration of romantic relationships; it is a day to cherish the love shared among family and friends. Locally known as 'El día del amor y la Amistad' or the day of love and friendship, Costa Ricans mark the occasion with romantic or friendly dates, exchanging flowers, chocolates, and even small gifts. The greeting 'Feliz día del amor y la Amistad' resonates throughout the day, commemorating love, and friendship.
In Guatemala, Valentine's Day is known as “El Dia del Cariño,” or the Day of Affection. The focus also shifts from romance to the love of family, friends, and coworkers. Older citizens participate in a “Desfile del Viejo Amor,” or Old Love Parade, in Guatemala City as part of the celebrations. The elderly dress in colorful costumes and ride on a festive float to celebrate Valentine's Day
In El Salvador, children engage in a small gift exchange akin to Secret Santa, known as 'Angelito' or 'Amigo Secreto' (Little Angel or Secret Friend). There is a modest budget of five or ten dollars, and participants do not reveal the recipient of their gift. Instead, they describe a characteristic of the person or make jokes about them, and the group tries to guess the intended recipient.
Explore the events calendar to plan your Valentine’s Day in Las Catalinas. We have the perfect celebration no matter who you are celebrating with.