Many people view Valentine’s Day as a day to celebrate and appreciate loved ones, while others view it as a “fake holiday” and believe that it is only celebrated for stores to make money. Valentine’s Day falls on February 14th every year and originally came from the ancient Roman calendar called Lupercalia. Lupercalia was a holiday that celebrated fertility and marriage, which historians believe that led Valentines Day to become the holiday it is today. It is a day that we can appreciate our loved ones, friends, and family. Yougov shows a study stating, “Fewer than half of Americans — 38% — say they plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year. People who are under 45 (47%) or in a relationship (53%) are more likely to say they intend to celebrate.”
To begin, many people view Valentine’s day as a regular day even though they have loved ones that they appreciate very much. Language Arts and Journalism teacher at Edison Intermediate School, Mrs. Erin Meade stated, “We don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day at my house because my husband thinks it’s a made-up holiday just for stores to sell things. I usually get him some candy, but I don’t get anything back. He always gets me fantastic Christmas presents, though!”
In addition, Marmalade trust shows another side of Valentine’s day. They stated, “Valentine’s Day, traditionally a celebration of love and connection, can paradoxically evoke feelings of loneliness for many of us. This day often emphasises romantic relationships, and societal expectations can create a sense of exclusion for those who may not currently be in a romantic partnership.”
Spanish teacher at Edison Intermediate School, Jillian Martinez stated, “For some people, it is a good reminder that they are lonely, but for me it’s also nice because I get to do whatever I want.”
Valentine’s Day is a holiday that many kids enjoy across the world. Kids view Valentine’s day as a day of happiness, love and a way to feel appreciated. Many parents and adults treat their kids to small gifts including candy and stuffed animals. Eighth grader Alex Natt stated, “I go out to dinner with my mom, and I get candy.”
Eighth grade student Emily Burke stated, “My dad normally gets me a basket with red things for Valentine’s Day.”
This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday of President’s Day weekend giving students a day off from school in Westfield. Students seem to enjoy this because they will have more time to spend with loved ones and appreciate family and friends on Valentine’s instead of spending it in school. Eighth grader Vivienne Spatz stated, “We shouldn’t have school on Valentine’s day because you should be spending time with your family and friends instead of spending it with your homework.”
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