O Valentine's Day in Italy It is celebrated on February 14th, a date known as San Valentino. Unlike Brazil, where the celebration takes place on June 12th, Italians follow the international Valentine's Day calendar.
The date honors Saint Valentine and is marked by religious celebrations, cultural events, and commercial initiatives in various Italian cities.
Origin and religious tradition
The story of Saint Valentine is shrouded in uncertainty. There are differing accounts of his identity and even of how many saints with that name exist in the Catholic calendar.
Several Italian cities have Saint Valentine as their patron saint. Among them are Padua, Sadali in Sardinia, Quero and Pozzoleone in Veneto, Palmoli in Abruzzo, and Vico del Gargano in Puglia.
Each place maintains its own traditions. In Palmoli, the floor of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is covered with laurel leaves. In Quero, there is a custom of blessing oranges and throwing them from a hill near the church dedicated to the saint.
Terni and the relics of the saint
A city of Terni It is considered by many to be the birthplace of Saint Valentine. There, the faithful visit the Basilica of San Valentino, built, according to tradition, over the saint's tomb.
Other Italian churches also claim to hold relics of Saint Valentine, including the Chiesa di Santa Maria in Cosmedin in Rome.
Events throughout February
In Terni, the entire month of February is dedicated to the saint. The program includes a chocolate festival, a reenactment of the martyrdom of Saint Valentine, and special street lighting.
In the municipality of Pozzoleone, in the interior of the province of Vicenza, the traditional Antica Fiera di San Valentino takes place. The fair brings together exhibitions, a market and local gastronomy, as well as theatrical performances and themed activities.
Other celebrations are also planned in Palmoli and Vico del Gargano, with blessings for couples, parades, fireworks, fairs, and gastronomic workshops.
Verona and romantic tourism
Although it doesn't have Saint Valentine as its patron saint, Verona is internationally associated with romance because of the work of William Shakespeare.
Between February 13 and 15, 2026, the city will host the Verona in Love event. The program includes a themed market, art exhibitions, and visits to locations linked to the story of Romeo and Juliet, such as Juliet's balcony.
February 15th is dedicated to singles.
In Italy, February 15th is known as Single Party ou Feast of San FaustinoThe date celebrates single people and has gained popularity in recent years.
Italian cities organize group dinners and social events, including speed dating for those seeking relationships.
Current trade and customs
In addition to religious celebrations and local events, the Valentine's Day in Italy It also has a strong commercial character. Couples often go out for dinners with special menus, book spa experiences, or plan short trips.
The tradition of giving flowers as gifts, especially red roses, is also part of the celebration.
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